Name: Creamy Spinach Mac and Cheese (Healthy) Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients: 10.58 ounces (300 g) macaroni uncooked; 5.29 ounces (150 g) spinach, chopped; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 1 garlic clove, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Sea salt and white pepper to taste; ½ cup (50 g) mature cheddar cheese, coarsely grated; 2-3 tablespoons (10 g) parmesan, coarsely grated; 1¼ cups (280-300 ml) semi-skimmed milk (light milk); 1½ tablespoons (20 g) butter; 2 tablespoons (15 g) flour

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 4 reviews

This Creamy Spinach Mac and Cheese (Healthy) Recipe is an absolute game-changer when you want something comforting yet nourishing. Packed with vibrant spinach, a luscious cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked macaroni, it offers a delicious way to sneak in some greens without sacrificing any of the rich, creamy goodness you crave. Best of all, it’s quick to whip up and lower in fat than traditional mac and cheese, making it a fantastic family-friendly dish you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A black cooking pot filled with cooked leafy green vegetables mixed with small pieces of light-colored onions and garlic sits on a metal rack. The vegetables have a shiny, soft texture and bright green color. A silver spoon rests inside the pot toward the right side. The pot has a black handle extending out to the right. The pot is placed on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet vital in building the dish’s fantastic flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays a crucial role: from the tender pasta base to the fresh spinach and melty cheese that combine into that irresistible creamy sauce.

10.58 ounces (300 g) macaroni uncooked: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy spinach sauce.
5.29 ounces (150 g) spinach chopped: Adds vibrant color, earthiness, and an extra nutrient boost.
1 medium onion finely chopped: Provides sweetness and depth to the base of the sauce.
1 garlic clove finely chopped: Gives a subtle punch of flavor that complements the cheese beautifully.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For gently sautéing the onion and garlic without overpowering the other flavors.
½ cup (50 g) mature cheddar cheese coarsely grated: Brings sharpness and classic cheesy richness.
2-3 tablespoons (10 g) parmesan coarsely grated: Adds an extra layer of savory umami complexity.
1¼ cups (280-300 ml) semi-skimmed milk/light milk: Keeps the sauce creamy but on the lighter side.
1½ tablespoons (20 g) butter: Helps create a silky roux for the sauce with luscious mouthfeel.
2 tablespoons (15 g) flour: Thickens the sauce to that perfect creamy consistency.
Sea salt and white pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors without adding harshness.

How to Make Creamy Spinach Mac and Cheese (Healthy) Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni following the packet instructions, aiming for al dente. This slight firmness provides wonderful texture and prevents the pasta from becoming mushy once it’s tossed with the sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Spinach Mixture

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over low heat and sauté the finely chopped onion and garlic until soft and fragrant. Then stir in the chopped spinach, season lightly, and cook over medium-high heat for about a minute until the spinach wilts but doesn’t release too much water. Remove from heat and puree this mixture until perfectly smooth; this step is key to creating that silky, verdant swirl in the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter on low heat, then whisk in the flour quickly to form a smooth paste – this is the base of your roux. Slowly pour the milk in while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens and bubbles gently. Let it rest for a couple of minutes to reach optimum creaminess before adding the cheese and spinach purée.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Fold the creamy spinach purée and grated cheeses into the thickened sauce, stirring well until the mixture is smooth, glossy, and truly inviting. Season with sea salt and white pepper to taste. Finally, toss the drained macaroni in this luscious sauce ensuring every piece is coated perfectly for maximum flavor in every bite.

How to Serve Creamy Spinach Mac and Cheese (Healthy) Recipe

A black pot filled with short tubular pasta fully coated in a thick bright green sauce that looks creamy and smooth, with the pasta scattered evenly throughout. A silver spoon is placed inside the pot on the right side, partially submerged in the pasta. The pot sits on a basketweave textured brown mat, and in the background, there is a clear bowl holding large green leaves. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To amp up the appeal and flavor, top your creamy spinach mac and cheese with a sprinkle of extra parmesan or freshly cracked black pepper just before serving. For a crunchy contrast, toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts scattered on top offer a delightful texture that turns this simple dish into a showstopper.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh, crisp salad to brighten the richness or a few roasted vegetables for added depth. Light lemon vinaigrette greens or garlic sautéed mushrooms complement the cheesy and leafy flavors without overpowering them, making for a balanced, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your creamy spinach mac and cheese in colorful bowls or mini ramekins for a fun twist. You can also stuff it into bell peppers or bake it with a golden crust of melted cheese and herbs for a fancy twist that’s still incredibly comforting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the mac and cheese cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or a quick reheat after a busy day.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor retention.

Reheating

Reheat in a covered dish in the oven or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. If the sauce seems a bit thick, add a splash of milk to revive its creamy consistency and freshness before serving.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional and delicious, you can substitute with penne, fusilli, or even shells—just make sure to cook them to al dente for the best texture.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans or dairy-free diets?

This particular version includes cheese and butter, so it’s not vegan or dairy-free. However, you can experiment by swapping dairy milk for plant-based milk and using vegan cheese alternatives to keep the creamy texture.

How can I add more protein to this dish?

Consider stirring in cooked chicken, turkey, or even crispy tofu cubes to boost the protein content, turning this healthy meal into a more complete dinner.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch, and choose gluten-free pasta to keep this Creamy Spinach Mac and Cheese (Healthy) Recipe safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.

What’s the best way to keep the sauce from separating after reheating?

Reheat gently on low heat and stir frequently. Adding a touch of milk when reheating helps keep the sauce smooth and creamy, maintaining the perfect texture you enjoyed fresh.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you give this Creamy Spinach Mac and Cheese (Healthy) Recipe a try because it’s one of those rare recipes that feels like an indulgence while sneaking a bit of healthfulness on your plate. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for any day when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something cozy yet nourishing.