Imagine a dish that combines the comforting nostalgia of mac and cheese with the vibrant freshness of greens—welcome to Creamed Greens and Onion Mac and Cheese! This delightful twist on a classic American favorite is not just a meal; it's an experience that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. With creamy textures, savory onions, and the goodness of mixed greens, this recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Ready to elevate your mac and cheese game? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups macaroni
- 1 cup cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent and slightly golden, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Add mixed greens to the skillet with onions. Cook for 3-4 minutes until greens are wilted and tender, stirring occasionally.
- Pour cream into the skillet with greens and onions. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cream to slightly thicken.
- Add cooked macaroni to the skillet, gently folding to coat the pasta with the creamy green mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the pasta and stir until cheese is completely melted and creates a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If sauce seems too thick, add a splash of pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 2-3 minutes to allow sauce to further set. Serve hot, garnishing with additional cheese if desired.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Be sure to cook the macaroni until al dente, as it will continue to cook when mixed with the creamy sauce. This ensures a perfect texture!
- Onion Magic: For a deeper flavor, consider caramelizing the onions a little longer until they are golden brown—this will add a sweet richness to your dish.
- Greens Galore: Feel free to mix and match your greens! Spinach, kale, or Swiss chard can all work beautifully in this recipe.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors. A sharp cheddar or a creamy Gruyère can take your mac and cheese to the next level.
- Consistency Control: If your sauce is too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of the reserved pasta water. This will help achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
- Garnish for Greatness: For a finishing touch, sprinkle additional cheese or a dash of freshly cracked black pepper on top before serving to elevate the presentation.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepped in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream if needed to revive its creamy texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 90mg
