Spicy Feta & Spinach Mac + Cheese

Vegetable MealsVegetarian MealsSide DishesCasserolesMain Courses

Jan 21

Written By Chef Sean Patrick Gallagher

DIFFICULTY | Easy COOK TIME | 55 mins PREP TIME | 30 mins

SPICY FETA & SPINACH MAC + CHEESE

INGREDIENTS:

(1) box large shells (or any pasta you want)
(2) T salted butter
(2) T all purpose flour
(2) cups whole milk
(1) T pul biber or (1/2) T hot pepper flake
(1/2) t dried oregano
(1) box baby spinach
(8) oz feta, divided
(4) oz Monterey Jack, shredded
(2) oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
(2) T grated parmesan
Pinch salt & ground fresh black pepper

PREPARATION + COOKING:

To begin cook your desired pasta to al dente, and then hold it to the side while you work on next steps.
Prepare the sauce by melting the butter and then adding the hot pepper flake. Let it bubble a way for several seconds then whisk flour in to create a roux.
Cook out the flour for a minute before pouring in milk, whisking to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
Combine all cheeses, holding a 1/4 of the feta to crumble over top and half the grated Parmesan.
Keep whisking until has thickened slightly then start adding in cheese in batches and whisking to combine. Continue until cheese is emulsified and sauce has thickened.
In a baking dish, add the cooked pasta, baby spinach, and the sauce. Stir to combine together.
Crumble remaining feta over top, sprinkle remaining parmesan cheese, and a dusting of hot pepper.
Bake at 400 degrees for 35 minutes until golden and bubbly, crispy and crunchy on top.