Spinach Artichoke Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients

• 2 cups dry pasta (such as gemelli or macaroni)
• ½ cup chopped artichokes
• ½ cup chopped and packed fresh spinach
• ½ cup chopped onion
• 3 large cloves of garlic, minced
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus 1 additional cup for the top)
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 cup half and half (heavy cream or regular milk would also work)

Instructions

1. Preparing the Ingredients

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a casserole dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure the pasta bake doesn't stick to the dish.

Step 2: Cook the pasta according to the package directions until it is al dente. Al dente means the pasta should be cooked but still firm to the bite. This will ensure that it doesn't become too soft after baking. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Chop the artichokes and spinach into small pieces. This ensures they distribute evenly throughout the pasta bake. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves.

2. Combining the Ingredients

Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped artichokes, spinach, onion, and minced garlic. This mixture will add a burst of flavor and nutrients to the dish.

Step 5: Add the softened cream cheese to the bowl. It's important that the cream cheese is softened to ensure it mixes smoothly with the other ingredients.

Step 6: Add the grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and the shredded Swiss cheese to the bowl. These cheeses will provide a rich, creamy texture and flavor to the pasta bake.

Step 7: Season the mixture with garlic salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste if needed.

Step 8: Sprinkle the cornstarch over the mixture. Cornstarch will help thicken the sauce as it bakes.

Step 9: Add the cooked and drained pasta to the bowl. Using a large spoon or spatula, stir until everything is well combined and the cream cheese has melted into a smooth sauce.

3. Adding the Half and Half

Step 10: Pour the half and half into the bowl and stir until it is fully incorporated. The half and half will make the sauce creamy and help bind all the ingredients together. If you prefer a richer dish, you can substitute heavy cream, or if you want it lighter, regular milk will also work.

4. Assembling the Pasta Bake

Step 11: Transfer the pasta mixture to the greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure it bakes uniformly.

Step 12: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta mixture. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust on top of the bake.

5. Baking

Step 13: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the pasta bake to prevent overcooking.

Step 14: Once the pasta bake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve.

6. Serving Suggestions

Serve the cheesy spinach and artichoke pasta bake hot. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It's perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress with a comforting, flavorful dish.

Tips and Variations

Tip 1: For added flavor, you can sauté the onions and garlic in a little olive oil before adding them to the mixture. This will bring out their sweetness and add depth to the dish.

Tip 2: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyere, fontina, or even blue cheese can add unique flavors to the bake.

Variation: Add cooked chicken or bacon to the pasta mixture for a heartier dish. Simply chop the cooked meat into bite-sized pieces and stir it in with the other ingredients.

Healthy Swap: Use whole wheat pasta and reduced-fat cream cheese to make this dish a bit healthier. You can also increase the amount of spinach for an extra boost of greens.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: To reheat, place a portion of the pasta bake in a microwave-safe dish and microwave until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes or until warm.

Conclusion

This cheesy spinach and artichoke pasta bake is a delicious and comforting dish that's sure to be a hit with family and friends. The combination of creamy cheeses, tender pasta, and flavorful vegetables creates a satisfying meal that's easy to prepare and enjoy. Whether you're making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy!