The Ultimate Comfort Food: Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese

Welcome to a world of cheesy indulgence and comfort! Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that combines two beloved classics into one extraordinary dish: Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese. This recipe takes the creamy and gooey goodness of traditional mac and cheese and elevates it with the vibrant flavors of spinach and artichokes. Picture tender pasta enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce, generously studded with sautéed spinach and artichoke hearts.

Each bite is a symphony of flavors and textures, with the rich and velvety cheese mingling harmoniously with the earthy spinach and tangy artichokes. Whether you're looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a show-stopping addition to your next gathering, this Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese is sure to impress. Join us as we dive into the recipe and uncover the secrets to creating a dish that will leave your taste buds begging for more. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food like never before!

Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese is the epitome of comfort food, as it combines the velvety smoothness of a creamy cheese sauce with the satisfying chew of pasta while incorporating the earthy flavors of spinach and artichokes. This dish evokes a sense of nostalgia and warmth, reminding us of cozy family gatherings and cherished memories. With its rich and indulgent nature, it provides a comforting embrace that soothes the soul and brings a feeling of contentment. The harmonious blend of familiar ingredients, the creamy texture, and the ability to customize it to personal preferences all contribute to making Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese a beloved comfort food that brings joy and satisfaction with every bite.

This was inspired by my other recipe on this site, and pairs well with this amazing sidedish recipe.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4

Jump to:

• Ingredients needed to make Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese
• How to make Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese
• Variations on the Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese recipe
• Equipment used in making Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese
• Storage
• Top tips for making Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese
• Related
• Pairing
• Ultimate Comfort Food: Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese

Ingredients needed to make Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese

• 12 oz. small dry pasta such as shells, elbows, mini penne or ditalini
• 1 c. milk
• ½ c. heavy cream
• 1 8-oz. package of cream cheese, room temperature
• 2 c. baby spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 8-oz. jar of marinated artichokes, roughly chopped
• 1 ½ c. shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 c. panko breadcrumbs
• 2 T. melted butter
• ¼ c. fresh parsley chopped
• 1 t. garlic powder
• sea salt and black pepper, to taste

How to make Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. 
2. Lightly grease a 3 qt. casserole dish and set aside.
3. While the oven is preheating, heat a large pot of lightly salted water over high heat and prepare the pasta according to package directions, cooking 1-2 minutes less than al dente. (Pasta will continue to cook during baking). When pasta is finished cooking, reserve one-half cup of the cooking liquid and set aside. Drain pasta but do not rinse. Return pasta to cooking pot. Add reserved cooking water, milk, heavy cream, and cream cheese. Stir gently until the cream cheese melts. 
4. Add baby spinach, artichokes, and cheddar cheese. Stir to combine. Add salt and black pepper, to taste.  
5. Transfer to the prepared casserole dish. 
6. In a small bowl, stir together the panko, melted butter, garlic powder, and fresh parsley. Sprinkle the panko topping over the casserole.  
7. Bake until the pasta is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown, 10-15 minutes. Enjoy!

Variations on the Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese recipe

Here are some variations you can try with the Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese recipe:

1. Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon to the mac and cheese for an extra protein punch and added texture.
   
2. Spicy Kick: Incorporate some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to give the dish a spicy twist. This variation adds a bit of heat and depth of flavor.
   
3. Mediterranean Twist: Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese to bring a Mediterranean flair to the dish. The tangy and salty flavors will complement the spinach and artichokes beautifully.
   
4. Gourmet Upgrade: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Fontina, or goat cheese for a more sophisticated flavor profile. These cheeses melt well and add a distinct richness to the mac and cheese.
   
5. Bread Crumb Topping: Sprinkle a layer of seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese over the mac and cheese before baking. This will create a crispy and flavorful crust on top.
   
6. Vegan/Vegetarian Option: Use dairy-free cheese, plant-based milk, and nutritional yeast instead of traditional cheese to create a vegan version of the mac and cheese. You can also substitute cauliflower or cashew cream for a creamy texture.
   
7. Gluten-Free Alternative: If you're following a gluten-free diet, use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend to make the cheese sauce. Ensure that any additional ingredients, such as breadcrumbs or pre-made seasonings, are also gluten-free.
   
8. Herbed Mac and Cheese: Add a burst of freshness by mixing in fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme. The herbs will infuse the dish with vibrant flavors and enhance the overall taste.
   
9. Truffle Infusion: Drizzle truffle oil or sprinkle truffle salt over the mac and cheese for a luxurious and decadent twist. Truffle adds an earthy and aromatic note that elevates the dish to a whole new level.
   
10. Baked Individual Portions: Instead of baking the mac and cheese in a large dish, divide it into individual ramekins for a charming presentation. Each serving will have a crispy edge and creamy center.

Feel free to mix and match these variations or let your creativity run wild to create your own unique spin on the Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese recipe. Enjoy exploring the delicious possibilities!

Equipment used in making Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese

casserole dish

Storage

Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. Ensure that you transfer the leftovers to an airtight container or seal them tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture. It's important to note that the quality and taste may gradually diminish over time, so it's best to consume the leftovers within the recommended timeframe for the best experience.

Related

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Pairing

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