Creamy St. Patrick’s Green Mac & Cheese

Name: Creamy St. Patrick’s Green Mac & Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups spinach, fresh; 2 cups milk; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Seasonal Holiday Recipes

I’m always on the lookout for fun and festive recipes to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, and this Creamy St. Patrick’s Green Mac & Cheese has quickly become a favorite in our household. It’s not just about the vibrant green color, but the rich, creamy texture that makes every bite a delight. By incorporating spinach and fresh herbs into the cheese sauce, we’ve managed to create a deliciously unique twist on the classic mac and cheese that's perfect for the occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-18T14:14:19.202Z

When I decided to make a St. Patrick’s Day dish that was both fun and delicious, I knew mac and cheese needed to be involved. I experimented with adding spinach to the cheese sauce, which not only gave it an amazing green hue but also a surprising depth of flavor. It was a huge hit with my family, and we loved how it inspired a bit of Irish spirit in our meal.

This recipe became a staple, especially because I discovered that using a blend of cheeses could elevate the creaminess, giving it that luxurious mouthfeel. I also started adding fresh herbs right at the end, which added a bright finish that takes this dish to the next level.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Vibrant green color that excites the senses
Creamy and cheesy texture that's incredibly comforting
A fun twist on a classic dish for St. Patrick’s Day

Elevating Classic Mac & Cheese

This Creamy St. Patrick’s Green Mac & Cheese is not your average pasta dish; the addition of fresh spinach introduces a subtle earthiness that perfectly balances the richness of the cheeses. When you cook the spinach just until wilted, it retains its vibrant green color and tender texture, creating a visually stunning and flavorful sauce. This unique combination not only enhances the dish's nutritional profile but also infuses it with a fresh taste you won't find in traditional recipes.

The process of creating the cheese sauce is pivotal for achieving that sought-after creamy consistency. As you whisk the roux made from butter and flour, it should bubble gently over medium heat before introducing the milk. This allows for a smooth base that prevents clumping when the cheese is added. It’s important to keep the heat low once the cheeses are incorporated to avoid scorching, which can lead to a grainy texture instead of the luxurious creaminess you want.

Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

While the vibrant green color of this mac and cheese is a standout feature, garnishing with fresh parsley adds both a pop of brightness and a hint of freshness. Chopped chives or even a sprinkle of breadcrumbs toasted in garlic can elevate the dish further, providing an appealing contrast of textures. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the cheese sauce for a spicy kick that harmonizes beautifully with the creaminess.

This dish is ideal for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration, but it can also serve as a comforting weeknight dinner. Pair it with a light side salad to balance the richness, or enjoy it as a standalone meal. For those looking to make it ahead, consider preparing the cheese sauce and cooking the macaroni separately. Simply combine and bake for a bubbly finish when you're ready to serve, making it a convenient option for busy days.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups spinach, fresh
2 cups milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Let's dive into the cooking process:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to create a roux. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens. Stir in the garlic powder and onion powder.

Add the Cheeses and Spinach

Reduce the heat to low and mix in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the fresh spinach and stir until wilted.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!

Enjoy your festive and delicious mac and cheese!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some cooked bacon bits to the sauce.

Ingredient Insights

Using a combination of cheeses in this mac and cheese is crucial for achieving depth of flavor. Sharp cheddar brings a robust tanginess, while mozzarella contributes elasticity, ensuring every bite is melty and satisfying. Parmesan enhances the umami aspect, adding a savory note that elevates the dish overall. If you're looking for alternatives, feel free to experiment with gouda or Gruyere for a different flavor profile, but maintain the balance of textures.

Fresh spinach is not just a color enhancer; it also provides a wealth of nutrients, making this dish a little healthier without sacrificing taste. Blending spinach into the cheese sauce creates a velvety texture and hides the greens for picky eaters. If fresh spinach isn't available, frozen spinach can be used, though it should be thoroughly thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture in the sauce.

Making It Your Own

Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe to suit your tastes. Add in-season vegetables like peas or broccoli for added crunch and flavor. For a protein boost, you can mix in cooked and crumbled bacon or diced chicken. This versatile dish can easily adapt to whatever ingredients you have on hand, making it a fun culinary adventure. When altering recipes, however, keep the proportions similar to ensure the sauce maintains its creamy integrity.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta varieties. Just be cautious of cooking times, as gluten-free pasta can have different al dente benchmarks. Also, check the flour in your roux; use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to maintain the creaminess and thickening capability of the sauce without compromising flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can substitute gluten-free macaroni in this recipe.

→ How can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the pasta ahead. Combine just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for spinach?

Kale or arugula can also work well and provide a different flavor profile.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the mac and cheese. Just reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.