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Healthy Mac and Cheese with Greens

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30min

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4 servings

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1 Reviews
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This Healthy Homemade Macaroni and Cheese transforms the classic comfort food into a nutritious meal by incorporating vibrant green vegetables. Whole grain pasta is coated in a lighter cheese sauce made with reduced-fat dairy, while sweet peas, nutrient-rich spinach, and aromatic basil add color, flavor, and vitamins. Perfect for sneaking vegetables into kids' meals or creating a more balanced version of a favorite dish, this mac and cheese delivers all the creamy satisfaction of the original with added nutritional benefits.

Nutrition Facts

Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is estimated and may vary based on portion size and preparation.

Facts
Quantity
Fiber
Sugar
5 g
6 g
Allergen Content

Based on your allergy profile, please note the following possible allergens:

Milk

Wheat

Ingredients

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Steps

Read instructions and get ready to cook

1
Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente.

2
Prepare the Vegetables

If using frozen peas, thaw them. Wash and roughly chop the spinach. Wash and chop the basil.

3
Prepare the Garlic

Peel and mince garlic cloves.

4
Make the Roux

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

5
Add Flour

Sprinkle flour over the melted butter and garlic. Whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook the flour.

6
Add Milk

Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to whisk until mixture is smooth.

7
Simmer Sauce

Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until it begins to thicken, stirring frequently.

8
Add Cheese

Reduce heat to low. Add grated cheese and stir until melted and sauce is smooth.

9
Season the Sauce

Add salt and pepper to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.

10
Add Spinach

Stir chopped spinach into the sauce and cook until just wilted, about 1-2 minutes.

11
Drain the Pasta

Drain the cooked macaroni and return it to the pot.

12
Combine Pasta and Sauce

Pour the cheese and spinach sauce over the macaroni and stir to coat evenly.

13
Add Peas and Basil

Gently fold in the peas and chopped basil.

14
Heat Through

Cook over low heat for 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.

15
Serve

Serve immediately while hot.

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