Creamy Spinach Bacon Mac and Cheese 🧀

Macaroni and Cheese with Spinach and Bacon 🧀🥓

Recipe Details:

• Name: Macaroni and Cheese with Spinach and Bacon
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Description: Indulge in the creamy goodness of this Macaroni and Cheese with a twist of spinach and savory bacon, creating a delightful dish perfect for lunch or snacking.
• Category: Lunch/Snacks
• Keywords: Vegetable, Kid Friendly, High In…, Spring, Summer, Winter, < 60 Mins

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 3272
• Fat Content: 196.1g
• Saturated Fat Content: 109.6g
• Cholesterol Content: 481.3mg
• Sodium Content: 5562.4mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 230.3g
• Fiber Content: 7.5g
• Sugar Content: 3.8g
• Protein Content: 145.4g

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp American cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup spinach
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Instructions:

1. Cook Macaroni: Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni in boiling water according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and set it aside.

2. Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes golden brown.

   Related Articles

   • 
     Vibrant Vegetable Garden Quiche Delight
   • 
     Smoked Sausage Supper: Savory Sauerkraut & Apple Delight 🍴
   • 
     Golden Fish Bites
   • 
     Garlic-Kissed Beef Carpaccio with Watercress: A Venetian Delight

3. Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps in the mixture. Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens.

4. Incorporate Spinach and Bacon: Stir in the spinach (if using frozen, ensure to squeeze out most of the moisture) and the crumbled bacon into the cheese sauce. Add the cooked macaroni to the saucepan and mix until well combined.

5. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.

6. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Lightly butter a casserole dish, then pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into it, spreading it evenly.

7. Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the top begins to turn golden brown and bubbly.

8. Serve: Once baked to perfection, remove the macaroni and cheese with spinach and bacon from the oven. Allow it to cool slightly before serving. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy goodness!

Tips:

• For added flavor, consider using a combination of different cheeses such as cheddar or mozzarella along with the American cheese.
• If you prefer a crispier topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or grated Parmesan cheese over the macaroni and cheese before baking.
• Customize this recipe by adding diced onions, garlic, or your favorite herbs and spices to the cheese sauce for a flavor boost.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Enjoy your Macaroni and Cheese with Spinach and Bacon – a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion! 🍽️