Gourmet Spinach & Artichoke Mac & Cheese

Gourmet Spinach & Artichoke Mac & Cheese

60 mins
medium
6 servings

A decadent and flavorful mac and cheese, elevated with fresh spinach, artichoke hearts, and a creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion.

ArtichokeMac and CheesePastaSpinach

Equipment Needed

  • Baking dish
  • Large Pot
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk

Ingredients

  • 1.00 poundCavatappi pasta(Use small shells for a different texture.)
  • 4.00 tablespoonsUnsalted butter(Divided use for pasta and sauce.)
  • 8.00 ouncesFresh baby spinach(Fresh spinach adds a vibrant flavor.)
  • 1.00 12-ounce canArtichoke hearts(Drain well before using.)
  • 1.00 small cloveGarlic(Minced for even distribution.)
  • 1.00 teaspoonSalt(Season to taste.)
  • 4.00 tablespoonsAll-purpose flour(For thickening the sauce.)
  • 3.00 cupsWhole milk(Room temperature for better blending.)
  • 1.00 cupGruyère cheese(Sharp Gruyère adds a bold flavor.)
  • 2.00 cupsFontina cheese(Blend of Fontina and Gruyère for a rich flavor.)
  • 8.00 ouncesMascarpone cheese(Adds richness and creaminess.)
  • 1.00 lemonLemon zest(Adds a bright citrus note.)
  • 1.00 teaspoonFreshly ground black pepper(Season to taste.)
  • 2.00 cupsCoarse breadcrumbs(For topping.)

Instructions

1

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Estimated time: 5 minutes

2

Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Estimated time: 10 minutes

3

Sauté spinach and artichoke hearts with garlic and salt until spinach wilts. Set aside.

Estimated time: 5 minutes

4

Melt butter in a saucepan. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened.

Estimated time: 10 minutes

5

Stir in cheeses, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until melted and smooth.

Estimated time: 5 minutes

6

Add cooked pasta and spinach-artichoke mixture to the cheese sauce. Stir well to combine.

Estimated time: 5 minutes

7

Combine melted butter and breadcrumbs in a small bowl.

Estimated time: 2 minutes

8

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.

Estimated time: 2 minutes

9

Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixture evenly over the top.

Estimated time: 2 minutes

10

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

Estimated time: 25 minutes