Ingredients and Weight:
- 8 oz (227g) elbow macaroni
- 16 oz (454g) fresh spinach, chopped
- 16 oz (454g) processed cheese spread (such as Philadelphia Cream Cheese)
- 8 oz (227g) Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 30 minutes
- Total: 50 minutes
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and mix well to form a roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk or half-and-half, while continuously stirring, until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Add the processed cheese spread and shredded Cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until fully melted and combined.
- Add the cooked macaroni and chopped spinach to the cheese sauce and mix well. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs (if using).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until bubbling and lightly golden on top.
Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming 8 total servings)
Calories: Approx. 500 calories per serving (based on using ingredients with typical nutritional values)
Dish Characteristics:
- Creamy and rich from the combination of processed cheese spread and Cheddar cheese.
- Spinach adds a fresh, slightly bitter flavor contrast to the cheese.
- Comforting dish that is perfect for colder weather or as a side dish for a special occasion.
User Comments:
- "This dish was so creamy and delicious! The spinach added a nice freshness to the traditional mac and cheese." - John Doe
- "My family loved this dish! It was a hit for a weekend dinner." - Jane Smith
- "The breadcrumbs on top made it extra crispy and delicious!" - Michael Johnson
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Use fresh spinach that is washed and chopped for best results. Canned or frozen spinach can be used but may affect texture and flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning according to taste, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
- For a richer dish, consider using full-fat milk or half-and-half instead of lower-fat options.
