Spinach artichoke mac and cheese combines one of the greatest American appetizers, spinach and artichoke dip, with one of the most iconic of American dishes, macaroni and cheese. This vat of cheesy pasta goodness was made for Uncle Sam. The signature creaminess of spinach and artichoke dip paired with the cheesy, saucy macaroni noodles is at once unexpected and utter destiny—the hallmarks of any great love story.
About Comforting Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese
The base of this spinach artichoke mac and cheese is my absolute favorite lightened-up cheesy white sauce, which relies on Greek yogurt for its body and velvety texture, instead of heavy cream (I used this same trick in my Chicken Alfredo Bake). For maximum mac gooiness, I stirred in a generous handful of Fontina cheese (just like in my Italian Mac and Cheese), which melts beautifully and has a subtle nutty flavor that offers more taste bang-per-bite than its mild cousin mozzarella. In addition to the leaner white sauce, this spinach artichoke mac and cheese is made with whole wheat pasta (like my Greek Mac and Cheese), a greater source of protein and fiber than its white pasta counterparts. Using whole wheat pasta in place of regular is an easy, instant swap that makes our meal notably healthier, no extra work required. Though spinach artichoke mac and cheese would make a stellar side at any gathering (your Fourth of July barbecue included), it’s hearty and healthy enough to operate alone as an all-in-one main dish. I’d originally intended to serve it with some simply sautéed carrots or sweet potatoes but ended up skipping them—the generous serving of spinach and artichokes in the mac and cheese felt virtuous enough on its own.
How to Store and Reheat Spinach Mac and Cheese
To Store. Place leftover mac and cheese in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To Reheat. Gently rewarm mac and cheese in a large skillet on the stove over medium-low heat until hot. Add in splashes of milk as needed to thin the sauce.
More Scrumptious Mac and Cheese Recipes
Adult Mac and CheeseBrussels Sprouts Mac and CheeseInstant Pot Cauliflower Mac and CheeseOne Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
Above all, this spinach artichoke mac and cheese achieves the dietary feat of tasting decadent while being wholesome. It’s excellent news, particularly as I’m focused on the spinach-artichoke-dip theme and plan to have two consecutive servings: one for my appetizer, followed by one for my dinner… …and just one more for dessert. Before I go—a huge thank you to everyone who sent kind notes following the release of yesterday’s first-ever Well Plated Monthly Newsletter. It’s a project I’ve been excited about for months, and it’s wonderful to see it come together at last. Not sure what I’m talking about? You can sign up to receive this nugget of inbox goodness once a month right HERE. I created this post in partnership with KitchenAid, for whom I am a contributor.
