Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese (Print Version)
Ingredients:
01 -
1 pound elbow macaroni.
02 -
Salt, for pasta water.
03 -
3 tablespoons unsalted butter.
04 -
1 small onion, finely chopped.
05 -
2 cloves garlic, minced.
06 -
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour.
07 -
2 cups whole milk.
08 -
1 cup heavy cream.
09 -
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg.
10 -
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste.
11 -
1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained.
12 -
4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
13 -
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
14 -
1 teaspoon mustard powder (optional).
15 -
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional).
Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
02 -
Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
03 -
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
04 -
Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown and fragrant.
05 -
Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
06 -
Season the sauce with ground nutmeg and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to taste.
07 -
Stir in the thawed and drained chopped spinach, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If using, add the mustard powder for an extra kick of flavor.
08 -
Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
09 -
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
10 -
If desired, sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese for added crunch.
11 -
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
12 -
Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy and delicious Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese!.
Notes:
01 -
Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese combines the creamy richness of mac and cheese with the nutritious addition of spinach, making it a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.