Spinach and Cauliflower Macaroni with Cheddar Sauce
Macaroni and cheese enriched with pureed cauliflower and chopped spinach, creating a creamy, veggie-packed version of a classic comfort food. This american-inspired pasta ready in about 35 minutes blends elbow macaroni, (about 6 oz) cauliflower florets, packed fresh spinach into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 480 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 10 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups (about 6 oz) cauliflower florets
- 2 cups packed fresh spinach
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook 10 oz elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Steam 2 cups cauliflower florets until very tender, about 10 minutes. Transfer to a blender or food processor and puree until smooth.
- Step 3: Roughly chop 2 cups packed fresh spinach and set aside.
- Step 4: In a large saucepan, melt 3 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tbsp all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute until a pale roux forms.
- Step 5: Gradually whisk in 2 1/2 cups whole milk and cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Step 6: Remove from heat and stir in the pureed cauliflower, 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp paprika until smooth and melted.
- Step 7: Fold the cooked macaroni and chopped spinach into the cheese sauce until well combined and spinach wilts from the residual heat.
- Step 8: Serve immediately for creamy texture or transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle extra cheese on top, and broil for 3-4 minutes for a golden crust.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Spinach and Cauliflower Macaroni with Cheddar Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 35 minutes (15 min prep + 20 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Spinach and Cauliflower Macaroni with Cheddar Sauce?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Spinach and Cauliflower Macaroni with Cheddar Sauce?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Spinach and Cauliflower Macaroni with Cheddar Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Spinach and Cauliflower Macaroni with Cheddar Sauce?
American pasta like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
