Spinach Macaroni and Cheese

By

A new kick to the original favorite.

  • 12
  • Average
  • 15 mins
  • 65 mins
  • Average budget

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 10 ounce package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
  • 8 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 1/4 cups grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 16 ounce package elbow macaroni, cooked according to package instructions
  • 1 cup fresh bread crumbs

Preparation

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish; set aside

Step 2

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 5 minutes, or until tender. Add mushrooms and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes, or until mushrooms are tender. Add spinach and cook until heated thoroughly. Remove from heat and set aside

Step 3

In a large saucepan, melt 5 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Sprinkle flour over melted butter. Cook, stirring constantly, for 3 minutes

Step 4

Gradually add milk, whisking to combine. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly for approximately 15 minutes, or until mixture is thickened. Remove from heat. Add mozzarella, 1 cup Parmesan, and salt, stirring until melted

Step 5

Spoon macaroni into a large bowl. Pour cheese mixture over macaroni. Add spinach mixture; stir. Spoon into prepared baking dish

Step 6

Bake for 20 minutes

Step 7

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine fresh bread crumbs, remaining 3 tablespoons melted butter, and remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese. Remove macaroni from oven and sprinkle with bread-crumb mixture. Return to oven and bake for 5 minutes, or until top is lightly browned