Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Green Mac and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 1 review

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A nutritious twist on classic macaroni and cheese, this Green Mac and Cheese features a vibrant blend of spinach and broccoli for added greens, combined with creamy white cheddar cheese. Baked to perfection, it’s a comforting, family-friendly meal packed with flavor and vegetables.

Ingredients

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups chopped broccoli florets
  • 1 cup peas

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 cups milk
  • 1 cup spinach
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • ½ cup water
  • 4 cups grated white cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350℉ (175℃) to get it ready for baking the final dish.
  2. Cook pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  3. Blend spinach and milk: In a blender, combine the milk and fresh spinach leaves, and blend until smooth to create a green, flavorful base for your cheese sauce.
  4. Make the roux: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes to form a roux without browning it.
  5. Add milk mixture: Slowly whisk the blended milk and spinach mixture into the roux; bring the mixture to a boil while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
  6. Thicken the sauce: Lower the heat to a simmer and whisk occasionally for 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken nicely.
  7. Incorporate cheese and water: Add the half cup of water followed by the grated cheddar cheese, and whisk until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
  8. Combine pasta and vegetables: Stir in the cooked macaroni, chopped broccoli, and peas, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
  9. Prepare for baking: Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish that has been sprayed with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  10. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese sauce is bubbling and slightly golden around the edges.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika before serving.
  • To make this recipe vegetarian, ensure your cheddar cheese is made with microbial or vegetable rennet.
  • You can substitute broccoli and peas with other seasonal vegetables like kale or asparagus.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
  • Use gluten-free flour and pasta to adapt this recipe for gluten-intolerant individuals.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://saraflavors.com/green-mac-and-cheese-recipe/