Gouda & spinach macaroni
Gouda & spinach macaroni combines creamy gouda and mozzarella cheeses with nutritious spinach for a comforting twist on mac and cheese. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
6 oz macaroni2 tbsp butter
2 garlic cloves
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp whole-grain wheat flour
1.50 cups milk (3.25% fat)
4 oz gouda cheese
2 oz mozzarella cheese
2 cups spinach
Gouda & spinach macaroni is a delightful twist on the classic mac and cheese. With the creamy richness of gouda and mozzarella, combined with the nutritious goodness of spinach, this dish offers both comfort and flavor. Perfect for a weekday dinner or as a side at a family gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
- Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the macaroni and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden, being careful not to burn it.
- Stir in the salt and black pepper.
- Sprinkle the flour over the butter and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the flour is lightly golden and well incorporated.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded gouda and mozzarella cheeses, cooking until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the roughly chopped spinach to the cheese sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts slightly.
- Stir in the cooked macaroni until all ingredients are well combined and the macaroni is evenly coated with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Spoon the Gouda & Spinach Macaroni into serving bowls.
- Optionally, garnish with extra shredded cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley.
- Serve immediately while warm.
Gouda & spinach macaroni is a comforting and delicious dish that combines the creamy texture of gouda and mozzarella with the fresh taste of spinach. Whether you're serving it as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is sure to please everyone's palate. Follow the tips provided to enhance the flavor and texture, and enjoy this tasty twist on a traditional favorite.
Gouda & spinach macaroni FAQ:
If you choose to bake the Gouda & Spinach Macaroni, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until it's al dente, which usually means it's tender but still slightly firm to the bite. This typically takes between 7 to 10 minutes.
Yes, you can substitute gouda with other cheeses like cheddar or fontina for a different flavor, and mozzarella can be replaced with a cheese that melts well, such as provolone or gruyère.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
For a gluten-free option, substitute the whole-grain wheat flour with an equal amount of cornstarch or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to whisk it well to prevent lumps.
Cooking Tips:
- Grate the cheese beforehand for smoother melting.
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor, but frozen spinach can be a convenient alternative.
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute some of the milk with cream.
- If you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- Toast some breadcrumbs with a little butter and sprinkle on top for extra crunch.
Nutrition Facts
6 ServingsCalories 220kcal
Protein 11g
Carbohydrates 13g
Fiber 1.69g
Sugar 3.89g
Fat 13g
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