Smoky Spinach Macaroni and Cheese

Submitted by Cynna

"This is an interesting twist on an old favorite. Also a verrrry clever way of sneaking spinach into your family's mouths. Smoky, creamy and oh-so-satisfying."

 

• Ready In: 35mins
• Ingredients: 15
• Serves: 4-6

ingredients

• 1⁄2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1⁄4 cup shallot, thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 1⁄2 cups milk
• 1⁄2 cup cream
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1⁄2 cup smoked gouda cheese, shredded
• 1⁄2 cup smoked cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1⁄3 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 5 cups fresh spinach, coarsly chopped
• 4 cups elbow macaroni (cooked and hot)
• cooking spray

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°.
2. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add shallots and garlic; cook 1 minute.
4. Add flour; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually add milk, cream, salt, and pepper, stirring constantly with a whisk until blended.
6. Bring to a boil; cook until thick (about 2 minutes).
7. Add cheeses; stir until melted.
8. Add spinach and macaroni to cheese sauce, stirring until well blended.
9. Spoon mixture into a 2-quart baking dish coated with cooking spray.
10. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
11. Bake at 350° for 15 minutes or until bubbly.

Reviews

[mommymakeit4u]

I didn't have the smoked version of the cheeses, and I mixed some parmesan with the breadcrumbs. I found that even after doing that the topping was very dry and boring. Next time I'll only use 1/4 cup crumbs and maybe dot with butter. Still a nice way to get that spinach in though!

 

[I Cook Therefore I]

This was absolutely the best mac and cheese I have ever had. I loved every bite of it. I also like the fact that this recipe makes a very manageable amount, unlike many recipes for casseroles that I come across that seem like they came straight out of Elementary School Cafeteria Recipes Monthly. I will be making this one again thanks so much for posting!

 

[tara portee]

I'm not giving stars because I changed it so much. I halved the recipe, but I actually used a lot more spinach, 10ozs of frozen spinach(defrosted and excess moisture pressed out). I added 16ozs of sliced browned smoked sausage. I still mixed it all up together and popped in the oven. The way I did it, the dish was a total meal in one. I used regular mozarella cheese instead of the smoked cheddar, but I did use the smoked Gouda. I really enjoyed the taste the gouda gave it. This was quick, easy, flavorful, and satisfying.

 

[Redsie]

What's not to love in this?? :)!! This is perfect comfort food! We loved the mix of spinach and cheese. Used low-fat milk and some leeks instead of the shallots. Can't wait to have the leftovers!! Thanks Cynna! Made for PAC 2007.