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Creamy Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese

creamy spinach artichoke mac and cheese - featured image
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A rich and comforting mac and cheese recipe that combines classic gooey cheese with fresh spinach and tangy artichoke hearts for a cozy homemade comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 4 cups fresh baby spinach, loosely packed
  • 1 cup chopped artichoke hearts, drained
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add fresh baby spinach and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in chopped artichoke hearts and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet or a separate saucepan, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes until bubbly but not browned.
  4. Slowly whisk in whole milk, ensuring no lumps form. Stir in softened cream cheese until fully melted and smooth.
  5. Reduce heat to low and gradually add shredded sharp cheddar, shredded mozzarella, and grated parmesan. Stir gently until all cheese has melted into a creamy sauce.
  6. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Add cooked macaroni, sautéed spinach, and artichokes into the cheese sauce. Stir carefully to coat all pasta evenly. If sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of milk.
  8. Warm everything through on low heat for another 2 minutes, stirring gently until sauce is glossy and smooth.
  9. Serve immediately. Optionally, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with extra parmesan, and broil for 3-5 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned.

Notes

Use low heat when adding cheese to avoid grainy texture. Drain artichokes well to prevent watery sauce. Use room temperature cream cheese and cheeses for smoother melting. For gluten-free, substitute flour and pasta accordingly. For vegan, use plant-based milk and cheeses.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, spinach artichoke, creamy, comfort food, easy recipe, cheesy pasta, homemade mac and cheese

Find it online: https://emacrave.com/creamy-spinach-artichoke-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-homemade-comfort-food/