If you're craving a comforting dish that combines the richness of cheesy goodness with the vibrant crunch of greens, look no further than our Homemade Mac and Cheese with Kale! This delightful twist on a classic favorite is not only easy to whip up in just 40 minutes, but it also packs a nutritious punch that will leave your taste buds dancing. Imagine creamy, melty cheddar enveloping perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, complemented by the fresh, earthy flavors of kale. Whether you're serving it as a hearty family dinner or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this recipe is sure to impress. Ready to elevate your mac and cheese game? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, wash the kale thoroughly and remove the tough stems. Chop the kale leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- When the pasta is done, drain it in a colander, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water. Return the pasta to the pot.
- In the same pot, add butter and melt over low heat. Sprinkle in garlic powder and stir.
- Pour in the milk and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly to create a smooth, creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water.
- Add the chopped kale to the cheese sauce and stir, allowing the kale to wilt slightly from the heat.
- Season the mac and cheese with salt and pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to serving dishes. For a crispy top, optionally place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden.
- Let the dish cool for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set. Enjoy hot!
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: To achieve the best texture, make sure to cook the elbow macaroni until it’s al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the cheese sauce.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a unique flavor profile. Just ensure they melt well!
- Kale Preparation: For a more tender texture, sauté the chopped kale in a bit of olive oil before adding it to the cheese sauce. This will enhance its flavor and make it even more delicious.
- Creaminess Factor: If you prefer a creamier mac and cheese, don't hesitate to add more milk or cheese until you reach your desired consistency.
- Broiler Bonus: For a crispy, golden top, finish your dish under the broiler for a few minutes. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
- Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time. Just reheat it in the oven, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.
- Seasoning: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning! A pinch of nutmeg can also elevate the flavor of the cheese sauce beautifully.Enjoy cooking and savoring this delightful dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
