Creamy Macaroni Spinach Bake

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Macaroni Spinach Bake, a rich and flavorful casserole that combines tender elbow macaroni, a velvety three-cheese sauce, and fresh spinach for a wholesome twist. This easy-to-make dish is elevated with hints of garlic, nutmeg, and a golden breadcrumb topping for the perfect mix of creaminess and crunch. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side at gatherings. With its irresistible layers of cheesy goodness and a dose of greens, this baked pasta dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Nutriscore Rating: 56/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 300 grams elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 120 grams cream cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 150 grams fresh spinach
• 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2

Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.

Step 4

Gradually add the milk to the saucepan, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the mixture begins to thicken.

Step 5

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and cream cheese until fully melted and smooth.

Step 6

Season the cheesy sauce with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 7

Add the fresh spinach to the saucepan and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.

Step 8

Remove the sauce from heat and fold in the cooked macaroni, ensuring the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.

Step 9

Pour the macaroni and spinach mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 10

In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the olive oil. Sprinkle the mixture over the macaroni evenly for a crispy topping.

Step 11

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

Step 12

Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1771.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4163.2

Total Fat 230.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 130.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.3g
Cholesterol 662.8mg	0%
Sodium 7084.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 351.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 17.7g	0%
Total Sugars 54.7g
Protein 177.9g	0%

Vitamin D 331.0IU	0%
Calcium 3705.5mg	0%
Iron 20.0mg	0%
Potassium 1343.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 49.4%

Protein: 17.0%

Carbs: 33.6%