Name: Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 TBSP salted butter; 3 TBSP all-purpose flour; 12 ounces evaporated milk; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 2 tsp minced garlic; 2 tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper; 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese; 4 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 2 ounces shredded Parmesan cheese; 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach (thawed and drained); 12 ounces marinated artichoke hearts (quartered); 16 ounces Casarecce pasta (or penne/rigatoni)

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If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table, then this Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese is just what you need! It’s creamy, cheesy, and brimming with flavor from the spinach and marinated artichokes. This recipe has become a staple in my home, perfect for busy weeknights or when I want to impress friends at a gathering. It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl!

Whether you’re serving it as a hearty main course or a delightful side dish, this mac and cheese will make any occasion feel special. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak some greens into your dinner without anyone noticing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just one pot needed and only 40 minutes of your time, you can whip up this delicious meal hassle-free.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the creamy texture and cheesy goodness—it’s perfect for picky eaters!
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare it in advance and simply pop it under the broiler when you’re ready to serve.
Loaded with Flavor: The combination of cheeses, spinach, and artichokes creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Versatile Dish: Tailor it to your preferences by swapping in different veggies or cheeses for endless variations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese are simple yet wholesome. Each element plays a key role in creating that creamy, dreamy texture we all crave. Here’s what you’ll need:

3 TBSP salted butter
3 TBSP all-purpose flour
12 ounces evaporated milk
1 tsp. onion powder
1 tsp. garlic powder
2 tsp. minced garlic
2 tsp. kosher salt
½ tsp. freshly ground black pepper
8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
4 ounces shredded monterey jack cheese
2 ounces shredded parmesan cheese
10 ounces frozen chopped spinach (thawed and drained of excess liquid)
12 ounces marinated (quartered artichoke hearts)
16 ounces Casarecce pasta (penne or rigatoni would work too)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
Make It Spicy: Include some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your mac and cheese a kick!
Vegan Twist: Substitute the cheeses with plant-based alternatives and use almond milk instead of evaporated milk for a dairy-free version.
Protein Boost: Mix in some cooked chicken or chickpeas to turn this into a protein-packed meal.

How to Make Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Roux

In a large, shallow cast iron enamel pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux, which will thicken our sauce beautifully. Keep stirring until it’s lightly golden brown—this step helps eliminate any raw flour taste.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to boil. Make sure to salt it generously; it should taste like the ocean! Add the dry pasta and cook until just under al dente. This way, when we mix everything together later, it’ll finish cooking perfectly without getting mushy.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Now it’s time to stir in the evaporated milk into your roux until smooth—you might need a whisk here! Add onion powder, garlic powder, minced garlic, salt, and pepper for that flavorful kick. Let it cook while stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly—it’ll take about three minutes.

Step 4: Combine Cheeses & Veggies

Once thickened, stir in almost all of your shredded cheese (saving some for topping) until melted. Then toss in the thawed spinach and marinated artichokes—no need to drain those artichokes; they add wonderful flavor!

Step 5: Mix in the Pasta

Fold your cooked pasta into that luscious sauce until everything is well combined. If it seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up just right.

Step 6: Broil for Perfection

Top with your reserved cheese and place under the broiler for about 4–6 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Serve immediately while hot and gooey—your guests will be raving about this dish long after dinner is over!

Pro Tips for Making Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese

Making the perfect Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese is all about technique and a few handy tips!

Use freshly grated cheese: Grating your cheese from a block ensures it melts smoothly and avoids the anti-caking agents found in pre-shredded varieties, giving you a creamier sauce.
Thaw and drain spinach properly: Excess moisture can make your mac and cheese watery. Be sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the thawed spinach before adding it to the mix.
Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning based on personal preference; your taste buds know best! This ensures that every bite is perfectly seasoned.
Don’t skip the broiler step: Broiling adds that delightful bubbly top layer of cheese with a golden crust, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Reserve pasta water wisely: The starch in pasta water can help adjust the consistency of your sauce. Use it sparingly to achieve the perfect creamy texture.

How to Serve Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese

Presenting your Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese beautifully can elevate the dining experience, making it even more enjoyable for family and friends!

Garnishes

Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley not only looks appealing but also adds a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, red pepper flakes add a spicy kick that contrasts nicely with the creamy mac and cheese.

Side Dishes

Garlic Bread: This classic pairing is perfect for soaking up any leftover cheese sauce, enhancing your meal’s comfort factor.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal veggies like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers adds color, nutrition, and an earthy flavor that balances out the dish.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steaming asparagus brings out its natural sweetness while offering a crunchy texture that complements the creamy pasta.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before storing.
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing

Let the dish cool down completely before freezing.
Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

For refrigerator leftovers, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cooking liquid if necessary.
If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese without artichokes?

Absolutely! You can omit the artichokes or substitute them with another vegetable like roasted red peppers or mushrooms for added flavor.

How can I customize my Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese?

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or gouda. You can also add more vegetables or spices according to your preference!

How long does Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this dish will last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your flour and other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delicious Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that’s packed with flavor and sure to please everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try; I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!