Name: Green Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Elbow Macaroni; 3 cups Whole Milk; 1 cup Fresh Spinach; 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter; 3 tablespoons Flour; 4 cups White Cheddar Cheese; 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 2 cups Broccoli Florets; 1 cup Peas

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Every time I whip up a batch of Green Mac and Cheese, I can’t help but smile. This dish has a way of bringing joy to family dinners, and it’s one of those recipes that never fails to impress. I remember the first time I tried it; the vibrant green color caught my eye, and the creamy texture immediately drew me in. My kids were skeptical at first, but one taste changed everything! The blend of cheddar cheese, spinach, and broccoli creates a delightful harmony of flavors. We’ve made it a tradition to enjoy it on cozy nights, snuggled on the couch while watching our favorite movie. There’s something about that cheesy goodness that wraps around you like a warm blanket.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
480 kcal

Protein:
20 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Blender, Large Pot, Whisk, Saucepan, Mixing Bowl, Grater, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon

Why This Green Mac and Cheese Works

A Warm, Inviting Dish

This Green Mac and Cheese is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With each bite, you can taste the love and care that goes into preparing it. The creaminess of the sauce envelops the pasta beautifully, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. I often catch my kids sneaking bites while it’s still cooling on the counter!

Healthier Twist

One of the reasons I adore this recipe is its healthy twist on a classic. The inclusion of spinach and broccoli boosts the nutritional value, allowing me to feel good about serving it. I love how easily you can sneak in those veggies without anyone even noticing.

Customizable Goodness

What’s great about Green Mac and Cheese is its versatility. You can easily switch up the veggies or add some of your favorite proteins. Feel free to toss in some cooked chicken or even different cheeses to create your unique version!

Perfect for Gatherings

This dish is a go-to for gatherings with friends and family. The bright green color adds a pop to the table, and it’s always a hit with guests. I’ve received countless compliments every time I serve it, and it’s fun to see everyone enjoying it as much as my family does.

Quick and Easy

Another reason to love this Green Mac and Cheese is how quick and easy it is to whip up. In under an hour, you can have a delicious meal ready to go. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Essential Ingredients for Green Mac and Cheese

The ingredients for Green Mac and Cheese come together beautifully, creating a dish that’s both comforting and nutritious. The key players here are the elbow macaroni, white cheddar cheese, and the vibrant spinach, which not only gives it its distinct color but also a health boost. The combination of creamy whole milk and unsalted butter adds richness, while broccoli and peas bring texture and flavor. Together, these ingredients create a mac and cheese that you’ll crave again and again.

Elbow Macaroni: 1 pound of elbow macaroni, which can also be substituted with campanelle, cavatappi, or shells. This classic pasta shape holds the sauce perfectly.
Whole Milk: 3 cups of whole milk give the sauce its creamy texture and richness, enhancing the overall flavor.
Fresh Spinach: 1 cup of packed fresh spinach not only colors the dish but adds essential vitamins and minerals.
Unsalted Butter: 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter for making the roux, providing a smooth consistency to the cheese sauce.
Flour: 3 tablespoons of flour help thicken the sauce, making it luxuriously creamy.
White Cheddar Cheese: 4 cups of grated white cheddar cheese for that melty, gooey goodness that makes mac and cheese irresistible.
Kosher Salt: 1 teaspoon of kosher salt enhances all the flavors, ensuring each bite is perfectly seasoned.
Broccoli Florets: 2 cups of chopped broccoli florets add a nice crunch and complement the cheese sauce beautifully.
Peas: 1 cup of peas provides sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.

How to Prepare Green Mac and Cheese

Making Green Mac and Cheese is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. Let’s get started on this cheesy adventure!

Preheat your oven to 350° F. It’s important to have the oven hot and ready for baking once your mac and cheese is assembled.
Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water, but keep in mind to cook it for about 3 minutes less than the package directions indicate. You want it al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven. Once done, reserve half a cup of the pasta water, then strain the pasta.
While the pasta is cooking, place the whole milk and fresh spinach in a blender. Blend on high speed until completely smooth. This step is crucial as it gives the dish its vibrant green color and subtle spinach flavor.
In a large pot over low-medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 to 3 minutes to create a roux. It should look smooth and slightly golden.
Slowly whisk in the milk and spinach mixture, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil while stirring frequently. This is where the magic starts to happen!
Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 3 to 4 minutes, whisking occasionally. You’ll notice the sauce will begin to thicken and bubble gently.
Now, it’s time to make it cheesy! Add the reserved pasta water and the white cheddar cheese to the pot. Whisk until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Stir in the cooked elbow macaroni, kosher salt, broccoli florets, and peas. Mix everything until well combined, making sure the pasta is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
Transfer the entire mixture to a greased 13 x 9-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and pop it in the preheated oven.
Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the pasta is set. At this point, your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Things Worth Knowing

Texture Matters: Aim for al dente pasta, as it will continue cooking in the oven. This ensures a perfect bite!
Blending Spinach: For a smoother sauce, blend the spinach and milk thoroughly. This step is key for that gorgeous green hue.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for varied flavors!
Broiling for Crispiness: For a crispy top, consider broiling the mac and cheese for the last few minutes of baking.

Expert Tips about Green Mac and Cheese

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Green Mac and Cheese turns out perfectly every time! Follow these guidelines for a delicious dish.

Storage: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should be good for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze this dish! Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of milk to the dish to keep it creamy. Heat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions: Pair this Green Mac and Cheese with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep! Make a batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week.

Serve This Green Mac and Cheese With

This Green Mac and Cheese is a versatile dish that’s perfect for various occasions. Here are some ideas on how to serve it:

Fresh Green Salad: For a light meal, serve it alongside a refreshing green salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette.
Grilled Chicken: Pair with grilled chicken for a heartier dinner, adding protein to your meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts make a colorful and nutritious side.
Cozy Family Dinner: This dish is perfect for family gatherings. Set it out with other comfort foods and watch it disappear!
Picnic Idea: Bring it to your next picnic! It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it a great option.
Seasonal Pairing: During summer, pair it with grilled corn on the cob and a light fruit salad for a summery vibe.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare Green Mac and Cheese a day ahead. Simply follow all the steps up to the baking part. Store it in the refrigerator, and when you’re ready to serve, pop it in the oven. It may take a few extra minutes to bake if it’s cold from the fridge, but it’ll be just as delicious!

If you want to make Green Mac and Cheese gluten-free, simply swap out the elbow macaroni for a gluten-free pasta. Additionally, you can use gluten-free flour for the roux. The texture and flavor will remain just as delightful!

Definitely! One of the great things about Green Mac and Cheese is its versatility. Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like zucchini, cauliflower, or even some roasted red peppers for a twist. Customize it to your taste!

To store leftovers, place your Green Mac and Cheese in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months!

Conclusion

In summary, Green Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that brings a delightful twist to a classic dish. With its creamy texture and vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try and make it a staple in your kitchen. You’ll find that it’s not just easy to make, but also a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love!