Side Dish Sunday: Spinach-Bacon Mac & Cheese

This is an easy recipe to make when you want a bit of comfort food -- but also want to get a little more nutritious.

3 cups shell macaroni, uncooked
3/4 cups baby spinach leaves
4 slices bacon, chopped
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups milk
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Cook macaroni according to package directions, drain and add spinach. Set aside.

To make the sauce, cook the chopped bacon in a large saucepan to get the drippings. Make a roux by adding the flour. Stir until bubbly. Gradually stir in milk and bring to a boil. Stir constantly for 3-5 minutes until thickened. Add 1 cup cheddar and parmesan in small batches, stirring well until melted. Lower heat and fold in macaroni, mix well.

Spoon into a greased casserole, top with remaining cheddar and bake for 20 minutes.

Nutrition Data
Six servings Per Serving

Calories = 490
Fat = 25g / Saturated Fat = 13g
Sodium = 530mg
Carbohydrates = 43g / Fiber = 12g
Protein = 22g

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