
Gourmet Spinach & Artichoke Mac & Cheese
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.
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
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Estimated time: 5 minutes
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Estimated time: 10 minutes
Sauté spinach and artichoke hearts with garlic and salt until spinach wilts. Set aside.
Estimated time: 5 minutes
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
Stir in cheeses, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until melted and smooth.
Estimated time: 5 minutes
Add cooked pasta and spinach-artichoke mixture to the cheese sauce. Stir well to combine.
Estimated time: 5 minutes
Combine melted butter and breadcrumbs in a small bowl.
Estimated time: 2 minutes
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Estimated time: 2 minutes
Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixture evenly over the top.
Estimated time: 2 minutes
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Estimated time: 25 minutes