Name: Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Spinach Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni – 2 cups (adjusted to 1.5-1.75 cups for more saucy consistency); 2 cups frozen chopped spinach (or 4-5 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped); 3 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk (or 2% milk for lighter option); 1/2 teaspoon salt (or more to taste, depending on cheese saltiness); 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, prepared mustard is acceptable); 1 teaspoon black pepper (optional); 3 cups (12 oz) shredded cheese – half American cheese (or Gruyere) and half sharp cheddar; Reserve 1/2 cup (2 oz, 56g) sharp cheddar cheese for topping

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 65 reviews

If you are a fan of classic comfort food with a little twist, the Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Spinach Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to dish. This recipe perfectly blends the creamy, cheesy goodness of traditional baked mac and cheese with the wholesome, vibrant bite of spinach. The result is a luscious, golden-baked casserole that is both satisfying and a bit more nutritious without compromising any of that rich, comforting flavor. Whether as a main course or a hearty side, this dish will delight your taste buds and is sure to bring smiles to the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a black cooking pot filled with cooked elbow macaroni pasta and leafy green spinach mixed in evenly. The pasta is pale yellow and smooth, while the spinach is dark green and wilted, creating a nice contrast. Small water droplets are visible on the pot's sides, giving a fresh, just-cooked feel. The pot sits on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Spinach Recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create fantastic flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays an essential role, from creating the creamy cheese sauce to adding vibrant freshness and that perfectly baked golden crust.

8 ounces elbow macaroni: The classic pasta choice for mac and cheese, providing the perfect shape to hold onto all the cheesy sauce.
2 cups frozen chopped spinach: Adds a healthy pop of color and subtle earthiness, but fresh spinach works beautifully too.
3 tablespoons butter: Used to build the roux that thickens the cheese sauce for that rich creaminess.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Combines with butter to create a smooth, thick base that keeps the cheese sauce silky.
2 cups whole milk: The liquid that brings it all together, making the sauce velvety and luscious.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing every other flavor in the dish.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional): Adds a subtle tang that intensifies the cheese flavor without overpowering.
1 teaspoon black pepper (optional): Gives a mild kick that balances the richness.
3 cups shredded cheese: A blend of half American (or gruyere) and half sharp cheddar cheese—key to the classic taste and melty perfection.

How to Make Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Spinach Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Casserole Dish

Heat your oven to 400°F (204°C) to get it ready for baking the mac and cheese. Line your 2-quart casserole dish with parchment for easy cleanup or simply give it a quick oil spray. This simple setup step ensures your masterpiece can bake evenly and be served effortlessly.

Step 2: Cook Macaroni and Spinach

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the elbow macaroni. As the pasta nears its al dente perfection—about 3 minutes before the recommended cooking time—add your frozen or fresh chopped spinach. This step gently cooks the spinach while the pasta finishes, giving you perfectly tender macaroni and vibrant greens all in one go. Drain everything once done and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

Melt butter in a medium-large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually add milk while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps and continue cooking for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken beautifully. Season with salt and optional Dijon mustard and black pepper for a lovely depth of flavor. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in 2 1/2 cups of your shredded cheese, reserving the remaining 1/2 cup for a golden topping later.

Step 4: Combine Pasta with Cheese Sauce and Spinach

Gently fold the cooked macaroni and spinach into the cheese sauce until every bite is coated in rich, creamy goodness. Transfer this mixture into your prepared casserole dish and sprinkle the reserved shredded cheese evenly over the top. This step sets the stage for that iconic, bubbly, golden crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until the top is a mouthwatering golden brown. This baking step brings everything together, melting the cheese topping into a delightful crust that contrasts perfectly with the creamy interior beneath.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Spinach Recipe

A close-up of a baked pasta dish in a white casserole dish with a slightly browned, melted cheese layer on top showing patches of golden yellow and light brown. Below the cheese is a creamy, pale sauce mixed with small green spinach leaves spread evenly throughout the dish. The pasta used is elbow macaroni, visible under the sauce and cheese, with some pieces slightly shiny and soft. There is a silver spoon placed inside the dish, partly scooping some pasta, reflecting light and showing texture on the handle. The background surface is a white marbled texture with soft natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dash of smoked paprika can brighten up this dish visually and flavor-wise. Crushed toasted breadcrumbs or a light drizzle of truffle oil offer exciting texture and an upscale twist, making your Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Spinach Recipe feel truly special at the table.

Side Dishes

This creamy delight pairs beautifully with refreshing sides like tangy coleslaw, crisp tomato salad, or smoky baked beans. These sides bring contrasting textures and flavors that cut through the richness, balancing the meal and making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the baked macaroni and cheese in individual ramekins or cast iron skillets for an inviting, rustic look. For a fun twist, layer the mac and cheese with extra sautéed spinach or mix in cooked bacon or caramelized onions before baking for added flavor layers. Presentation can elevate this comfort food into a memorable feast your guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be covered tightly and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce thickens as it cools, so adding a splash of milk when reheating will bring back that silky texture with ease.

Freezing

You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake it straight from frozen at 350°F (177°C) for about 1 to 1 1/4 hours. This is a fantastic way to prepare meals ahead and still enjoy the fresh-baked taste whenever you crave it.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until warmed through to preserve the creamy texture and to re-crisp the cheesy topping. Stovetop reheating over low heat with a splash of milk can also work well for smaller portions.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen in the Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Spinach Recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh spinach can be used in place of frozen—just chop it and add to the pasta a bit earlier since fresh spinach cooks down quickly. It imparts a fresher flavor and vibrant color to the dish.

What types of cheese work best for this recipe?

A blend of sharp cheddar and American or gruyere cheese works wonderfully to create creamy, flavorful sauce with a nice melt and golden crust. Feel free to experiment with gouda or Monterey jack for a unique twist.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the roux, and make sure your noodles are gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can this dish be made dairy-free or vegan?

With some tweaks, yes. Use dairy-free milk alternatives and a vegan butter substitute combined with vegan cheese shreds to create a similar creamy sauce. Keep in mind, texture and flavor may vary, but it can still be delicious.

How can I make the cheese sauce extra creamy?

Using a higher-fat milk like whole milk and not skimping on the butter helps. Also, melting cheeses slowly into the warm sauce instead of boiling prevents separation and ensures smooth creaminess. A little bit of mustard also boosts flavor and texture nicely.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the cozy, nostalgic feeling of a homemade mac and cheese, especially when it includes that unexpected but delightful addition of spinach. The Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Spinach Recipe is a heartwarming dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you want a rich, comforting meal with a touch of green goodness. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort classic!