Description
A healthy twist on the classic mac and cheese, this Creamy Spinach Mac and Cheese combines tender macaroni with a smooth, cheesy spinach sauce made from fresh spinach, mature cheddar, and parmesan. Enhanced with sautéed onions and garlic, this comforting dish is both nutritious and delicious, perfect for a quick family meal in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 10.58 ounces macaroni (uncooked)
Spinach Sauce
- 5.29 ounces spinach (chopped)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 1 garlic clove (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup mature cheddar cheese (coarsely grated)
- 2-3 tablespoons parmesan (coarsely grated)
- 1¼ cups semi-skimmed milk
- 1½ tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- Sea salt and white pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to the packet instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Spinach Mixture: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil over low heat in a skillet. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic, frying gently while stirring often until softened, about 2 minutes. Add the chopped spinach, season with sea salt and white pepper, then cook over medium-high heat for about a minute, stirring constantly until the spinach reduces in volume but before it becomes watery. Remove from heat.
- Puree the Spinach Mixture: Transfer the cooked spinach, onion, and garlic mixture to a blender or food processor and puree until smooth and silky. Set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk quickly to form a paste. Gradually increase the heat and slowly add the semi-skimmed milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens and bubbles, then remove from heat and let sit for 2 minutes to thicken further.
- Combine and Finish: Stir the pureed spinach mixture into the cheese sauce along with the grated mature cheddar and parmesan. Mix thoroughly until the sauce is smooth and glossy. Add the cooked macaroni, season with extra salt and white pepper to taste, stir well, and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a creamier dish, use full-fat milk or add a splash of cream.
- Ensure not to overcook the spinach to prevent a watery sauce.
- Adjust seasoning to preference, especially white pepper which enhances but does not overpower the dish.
- Can be garnished with extra parmesan or fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and gently reheated.
