Green Mac and Cheese

Green macaroni and cheese in a baking dish.

4.08 from 39 votes

Green Mac and Cheese

Green Mac and Cheese is packed with fresh spinach, broccoli, and peas. It's a creamy, cheesy dish that sneaks in extra greens without compromising flavor.

Prep Time10

Cook Time30

Total Time40

Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: American

Servings:

Calories: 567kcal

Author: Catherine McCord

Ingredients

1 pound elbow macaroni (you can also use campanelle, cavatappi, or shells)
3 cups whole milk
1 cup packed fresh spinach
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons flour
4 cups grated white cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 cups chopped broccoli florets
1 cup peas

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350° F.
Cook pasta in salted water for about 3 minutes less than package directions call for, until al dente. Reserve half a cup of the pasta water and strain.
While the pasta is cooking. Place the milk and spinach in a blender and blend on high speed until smooth.
In a large pot melt the butter and then add the flour, whisking continuously over low-medium heat for 2-3 minutes to make a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk mixture and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer, whisking occasionally, 3 to 4 minutes, or until sauce is gently bubbling and starting to thicken.
Add reserved pasta water and cheese and whisk until melted. Stir in the pasta, salt, broccoli and peas.
Transfer to a greased 13″ x 9″ baking dish and bake for 20 minutes, or until cheese is bubbling and the pasta is set.

Notes

- Blend Until Smooth: To get that vibrant green color, make sure to blend the spinach and milk until completely smooth.

- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since it will continue cooking in the oven, slightly undercooking the pasta noodles helps maintain the perfect texture.

- Use Fresh or Frozen Veggies: Both work great! If using frozen broccoli or peas, thaw them before adding to the mix.

- Broil for a Golden Top: For a crispy, golden crust, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. And feel free to add more grated cheese on top!
- To Freeze: Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Nutrition

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