Spinach-Bacon Mac and Cheese

Health score
37%
Spinach-Bacon Mac and Cheese
20 min.
4
990kcal

Suggestions


Indulge in a comforting dish that beautifully combines savory and vibrant flavors: Spinach-Bacon Mac and Cheese! This delightful recipe is perfect for anyone craving a quick yet satisfying meal that brings together the heartiness of pasta, the richness of cheese, and the crunch of crispy bacon, all while incorporating the goodness of fresh spinach. Whether you're looking for a side dish that complements your dinner or a main course to brighten up your lunch, this dish doesn't disappoint.

In just 20 minutes, you can create a bowl of creamy, dreamy mac and cheese that packs a punch with its flavorful ingredients. The addition of tender baby spinach not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the nutritional value, making each bite guilt-free and delicious. The buttery cheese sauce blends perfectly with the rotini pasta, ensuring that every twist and turn is coated with cheesy goodness. With crispy bacon crumbles dotting the dish, you get an irresistible crunch that elevates the overall experience.

This recipe serves up to four people, making it a perfect option for family gatherings or impromptu lunch dates with friends. Plus, at 990 calories per serving, it’s a hearty meal that is both comforting and filling. Grab your sauce pan and whisk; it’s time to whip up this delightful Spinach-Bacon Mac and Cheese that will surely become a family favorite!

Ingredients

  • oz baby spinach fresh
  • 0.3 cup butter 
  • 0.5 cup bacon cooked chopped ( 6 slices)
  • 0.3 cup flour all-purpose
  • 0.1 teaspoon garlic powder 
  • 0.3 teaspoon ground pepper red
  • 2.5 cups milk 2%
  • 16 oz rotini pasta 
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt 
  • 10 oz block sharp cheddar cheese shredded 2%

Equipment

  • sauce pan
  • whisk

Directions

  1. Prepare pasta according to package directions.
  2. Meanwhile, melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Gradually whisk in flour until smooth; cook, whisking constantly, 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and next 3 ingredients; cook, whisking constantly, 8 to 10 minutes or until thickened.
  3. Remove from heat.
  4. Gradually stir in Cheddar cheese, stirring until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth. Stir in bacon, spinach, and hot cooked pasta.
  5. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Calories990kcal
Protein17.48%
Fat41.44%
Carbs41.08%

Properties

Glycemic Index
65.75
Glycemic Load
39.03
Inflammation Score
-10
Nutrition Score
39.446521883426%

Flavonoids

Luteolin
0.31mg
Kaempferol
2.71mg
Myricetin
0.15mg
Quercetin
1.69mg

Nutrients percent of daily need

Calories:990.38kcal
49.52%
Fat:45.46g
69.94%
Saturated Fat:24.81g
155.04%
Carbohydrates:101.38g
33.79%
Net Carbohydrates:96.56g
35.11%
Sugar:10.95g
12.17%
Cholesterol:127.16mg
42.39%
Sodium:1192.7mg
51.86%
Alcohol:0g
100%
Alcohol %:0%
100%
Protein:43.13g
86.26%
Vitamin K:208.62µg
198.68%
Selenium:105.82µg
151.18%
Vitamin A:5259.89IU
105.2%
Phosphorus:762.86mg
76.29%
Manganese:1.51mg
75.48%
Calcium:750.56mg
75.06%
Vitamin B2:0.81mg
47.72%
Zinc:5.64mg
37.6%
Folate:140.07µg
35.02%
Magnesium:135.71mg
33.93%
Vitamin B12:1.71µg
28.52%
Potassium:837.18mg
23.92%
Vitamin B1:0.36mg
23.68%
Copper:0.44mg
22.13%
Vitamin B3:4.37mg
21.85%
Vitamin B6:0.43mg
21.65%
Fiber:4.82g
19.27%
Iron:3.29mg
18.26%
Vitamin B5:1.54mg
15.42%
Vitamin C:12.34mg
14.96%
Vitamin E:1.99mg
13.3%
Vitamin D:0.48µg
3.21%
Source:My Recipes