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There’s something so comforting about the creamy, cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese. But what if I told you that you could elevate that beloved dish into something a little greener while keeping all that indulgence? Last week, I found a beautiful bundle of fresh spinach at the local market, and inspiration struck. Thus, my Green Mac & Cheese journey began—a vibrant twist on the traditional recipe that’s as delicious as it is wholesome!

As I stirred together the rich, cheesy sauce, the earthy aroma of garlic and onion wafted through my kitchen, blending perfectly with the fresh notes of parsley and spinach. The result? A delightful dish that not only satisfies the craving for comfort food but also sneaks in some nutritious greens. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests with a clever take on a classic, this Spinach Macaroni and Cheese will become an instant favorite in your home. Are you ready to transform your pasta experience? Let’s dive in!

Why Love This Green Mac & Cheese?

Bold flavors await: The fusion of spinach and cheese makes for a mouthwatering dish that is both rich and vibrant.
Simple to prepare: Even beginner cooks can whip this up with minimal effort.
Healthy twist on comfort food: Sneak in those greens without sacrificing flavor—perfect for families!
Versatile option: Enjoy it on its own or as a side dish that pairs well with various proteins.
Crowd-pleaser guaranteed: Impress guests or brighten up a weeknight dinner with this impressive yet comforting classic.
Transform your dinner planning with this delicious recipe that’s destined to become a favorite!

Green Mac & Cheese Ingredients

Get ready for a deliciously creamy dish packed with greens!

For the Pasta

Macaroni elbows – 1 pound; this classic pasta shape holds onto the cheesy sauce beautifully.
Salt – 1 tablespoon; enhances the flavor of the pasta during boiling.

For the Cheese Sauce

Butter – ¼ cup; adds richness and is key for creating a smooth roux.
Flour – ¼ cup; thickens the sauce, giving it that creamy consistency we all crave.
Milk – 2½ cups, divided; use whole milk for the creamiest results.
Garlic powder – 2 teaspoons; imparts a wonderful depth of flavor.
Onion powder – 2 teaspoons; adds warmth and complements the garlic perfectly.
Paprika – 1 teaspoon; brightens the sauce with its color and a hint of smokiness.
Pepper – 1 teaspoon; freshly ground is best for the most robust taste.
Salt – 1 teaspoon; balances the flavors in the cheesy sauce.
White cheddar – 16 ounces; the star of the show, providing that classic cheesy flavor.
Mozzarella – ½ cup; adds a gooey texture and lovely stretch to the dish.

For the Greens

Spinach – 4 cups, packed; this is where the heart of the “green” in Green Mac & Cheese comes from, contributing both nutrition and color.
Parsley – ½ cup; brightens the dish and adds a fresh herbaceous note.

This delightful Green Mac & Cheese is sure to satisfy your cravings while filling your plate with color and nutrition. Enjoy!

How to Make Green Mac & Cheese

Boil Water: Bring 5 quarts of water to a vigorous boil in a large pot. Add 1 tablespoon of salt, then toss in the macaroni elbows. Cook until al dente, as per package instructions, about 8-10 minutes.
Melt Butter: In a separate pot, melt ¼ cup of butter over medium heat. Watch for it to become bubbly and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Make Roux: Whisk in ¼ cup of flour and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns lightly golden and has a pleasant nutty aroma.
Add Milk: Gradually whisk in 2½ cups of milk, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer, keeping an eye on its thickness—aim for a creamy consistency.
Flavor the Sauce: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of salt until everything is well combined. Allow the flavors to meld for a minute or two.
Melt Cheeses: Remove the pot from heat and stir in white cheddar and mozzarella. Keep mixing until the cheese melts into an irresistible, gooey sauce.
Combine All: Finally, fold in the cooked macaroni, packed spinach, and chopped parsley. Stir joyfully until everything is well blended, like a colorful hug in a bowl!

Optional: Garnish with extra parsley for a fresh finish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Helpful Tricks for Green Mac & Cheese

Prep Spinach First: Make sure to wash and chop the spinach in advance. This saves time and lets you focus on making the creamy sauce!
Don’t Overcook Pasta: Keep a close eye on the macaroni to ensure it’s al dente. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture in your Green Mac & Cheese.
Butter & Flour Ratio: Accurately measure your butter and flour for the roux to achieve the perfect creamy consistency. Too much flour will thicken the sauce too much.
Gradual Milk Addition: Always add milk gradually while whisking. This prevents lumps and ensures a silky-smooth cheese sauce.
Cheese Mixing Tips: Mix cheeses off the heat; this helps them melt evenly without becoming stringy, resulting in a luscious, gooey sauce.
Experiment with Greens: Feel free to add other greens like kale or broccoli to diversify your Green Mac & Cheese while boosting nutrients.

How to Store and Freeze Green Mac & Cheese

Fridge: Store any leftover Green Mac & Cheese in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or a saucepan with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating from refrigerated or frozen, add a little milk to restore creaminess and heat on low until warmed through. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Avoid Refreezing: It’s best to avoid refreezing after reheating, as this can affect the texture and flavor of your delicious Green Mac & Cheese.

What to Serve with Spinach Macaroni and Cheese?

Creating a cozy meal around this vibrant dish opens the door to delightful pairings that enhance every bite.

Garlicky Roasted Broccoli: The crunch and robust flavor of roasted broccoli bring a satisfying contrast to the creamy pasta. The garlicky aroma complements the dish beautifully.
Crispy Garlic Bread: A warm slice of crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of cheese sauce, adding a touch of indulgence.
Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with tangy vinaigrette offers a light, crisp bite that balances the richness of the mac and cheese, making for a refreshing contrast on the plate.
Herbed Quinoa: Nutty quinoa, tossed with fresh herbs, adds a protein-packed element that harmonizes with the green goodness of your mac and cheese.
Sautéed Mushrooms: Earthy sautéed mushrooms infuse an umami richness, enhancing the dish while providing a delightful textural contrast.
Chilled White Wine: Toast with a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc, whose crisp acidity cuts through the creaminess, making every spoonful even more enjoyable.

For an impressive family meal or a cozy night with friends, these pairings create a truly memorable dining experience.

Green Mac & Cheese Variations

Ready to make this creamy delight your own? Discover simple twists and substitutions that will elevate your Green Mac & Cheese!

Dairy-Free: Swap the milk with almond or oat milk and use plant-based cheese for a creamy, dairy-free delight.
Spinach-Free: For a different green, use kale or broccoli, finely chopped, adding extra nutrients and a unique flavor.
Protein-Packed: Stir in cooked chicken, bacon, or chickpeas for a heartier version that satisfies both taste buds and hunger.
Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh basil or thyme instead of parsley for an added burst of aromatic freshness that complements the cheese.
Extra Creamy: Mix in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream to your cheese sauce for an extra-rich, velvety texture.
Zesty Addition: Blend in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a kick that mingles beautifully with the creaminess.
Dive into this vibrant recipe and personalize it to fit your family’s tastes—and turn ordinary dinners into a celebration of flavors!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing this Creamy Green Mac & Cheese in advance can save you precious time on busy weeknights! You can cook the macaroni up to 24 hours ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the cheese sauce can be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days, but make sure to reheat it gently to prevent separation. If you also prep the spinach and parsley by washing and chopping them ahead of time, you’ll only need to combine all the components when it’s time to enjoy it. When you’re ready to serve, simply stir everything together and bake if desired; this ensures your macaroni comes out just as delicious as if made fresh!

Spinach Macaroni and Cheese Recipe FAQs

What kind of spinach should I use?
Absolutely fresh spinach is what you’re looking for! Choose vibrant, dark green leaves without any dark spots or wilting. You can use baby spinach for a more tender texture or regular spinach, making sure to rinse and chop if necessary.

How should I store leftovers of my Green Mac & Cheese?
Store any leftover Green Mac & Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you find it’s a bit dry upon reheating, simply add a splash of milk to restore that creamy consistency!

Can I freeze Green Mac & Cheese?
Yes! For freezing, portion your Green Mac & Cheese into airtight containers or freezer bags. It can stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on low heat, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy and delicious.

What should I do if my cheese sauce is lumpy?
Don’t worry; it happens to the best of us! If your cheese sauce ends up lumpy, use an immersion blender or transfer it to a regular blender to smooth it out. You might also try whisking vigorously while heating it on low to help dissolve any stubborn lumps.

Is this Green Mac & Cheese safe for my child who has dairy allergies?
For those with dairy allergies, you can substitute regular milk with lactose-free milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. Various brands today offer great-tasting dairy-free options that melt well, ensuring you can still enjoy this delicious dish while accommodating dietary restrictions.

How long does cooked pasta last in the fridge?
Cooked pasta can be stored in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. If you have leftover macaroni from this recipe, it’s best to mix it into the Green Mac & Cheese before storing, ensuring all ingredients stay fresh and flavorful together.