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- 2 cups elbow macaroni - 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded - 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated - 2 cups milk - 4 tablespoons butter - 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard - ½ teaspoon paprika - Salt and pepper to taste

Easy Baked Mac and Cheese with Spinach

Indulge in a comforting bowl of Cheesy Spinach Delight Mac & Cheese that elevates the classic dish with fresh spinach for added nutrition and color. This creamy blend of sharp cheddar and nutty Parmesan creates a rich sauce that perfectly coats elbow macaroni. Ideal for family dinners or cozy nights in, this recipe is simple to prepare and sure to satisfy both kids and adults. Discover how to make this delicious twist on a beloved favorite today!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups elbow macaroni

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

4 cups milk

1/4 cup butter (1/2 stick)

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp mustard powder

1/2 tsp paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

1 tbsp olive oil (if using breadcrumbs)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

      Sauté Spinach: In a medium skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside.

        Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and whisk to form a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes.

          Add Milk and Seasonings: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

            Melt the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

              Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, sautéed spinach, and cheese sauce. Stir until everything is well coated.

                Prepare for Baking: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. If using breadcrumbs, toss them with a tablespoon of olive oil and then spread them evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.

                  Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

                    Cool & Serve: Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your deliciously creamy and cheesy baked mac and cheese with spinach!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | Serves 6-8