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–+ servings
Green macaroni and cheese in a baking dish.
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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 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 8
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

Calories: 567kcal | Carbohydrates: 54g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 27g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 79mg | Sodium: 710mg | Potassium: 446mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 1473IU | Vitamin C: 28mg | Calcium: 544mg | Iron: 1mg