This Greek mac and cheese recipe is a delicious twist on the traditional mac and cheese, bringing in the bold flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. It incorporates the creamy, salty tang of feta cheese and the unique taste of kalamata olives, while fresh baby spinach and cherry tomatoes add a healthy and colorful touch. The use of whole wheat elbow pasta also adds a wholesome element to the dish.
Certain ingredients such as feta cheese, dried oregano, dried marjoram, kalamata olives, and fresh dill may not be readily available in your pantry. Feta cheese is a key ingredient for this recipe, adding a unique tangy flavor that's distinctively Greek. Dried oregano and marjoram are aromatic herbs commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine. Kalamata olives, named after the city of Kalamata in Greece, are dark purple olives with a smooth, meaty texture. Fresh dill, with its unique sweet and aromatic flavor, is used as a garnish.
Ingredients for Greek Mac and Cheese
Kosher salt: Used to season the water in which the pasta is boiled.
Delallo's 100% organic whole wheat elbow pasta: A healthier alternative to regular pasta.
Cooking spray: Used to prevent the mac and cheese from sticking to the casserole dish.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor.
Red onion: Adds a sweet and mild flavor.
Garlic cloves: Adds a pungent, spicy flavor that mellows and sweetens with cooking.
All-purpose flour: Used as a thickening agent for the sauce.
Low fat milk: Adds creaminess to the sauce.
Mozzarella: A mild, white cheese that melts well.
Feta cheese: A briny cheese that adds a Greek touch to this dish.
Dried oregano: A common herb in Mediterranean cooking, adds a earthy, minty flavor.
Dried marjoram: Similar to oregano, but milder and slightly sweet and citrusy.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a spicy kick.
Cherry tomatoes: Adds sweetness and a pop of color.
Kalamata olives: A variety of olives named after the city of Kalamata in Greece, they add a rich, fruity flavor.
Fresh baby spinach: Adds color and health benefits to the dish.
Fresh dill: Used as a garnish, it has a unique sweet and aromatic flavor.
One reader, Alyson Ahn says:
This Greek mac and cheese recipe is a game-changer! The blend of feta, mozzarella, and Mediterranean flavors creates a rich and comforting dish. The addition of cherry tomatoes, olives, and spinach adds a refreshing twist. It's a delightful fusion of Greek and Italian cuisine that's sure to impress!
Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Greek Mac and Cheese
How to boil pasta: Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water until just under al dente according to package directions.
How to sauté onions and garlic: In a medium saucepot over medium-high heat, melt the butter, add the red onion, and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Then add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute more.
How to make the cheese sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stir, and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes. Then, add the milk, whisk until boiling, and remove from heat. Add the mozzarella and ⅓ of the feta, then stir until mostly melted.
How to assemble the dish: Transfer the cheese and vegetable mixture to the casserole dish, then top with the remaining feta cheese.
How to bake the dish: Bake for about 20 to 22 minutes at 375 degrees F or until the top is golden.
How to garnish and serve: Garnish the baked dish with dill, then serve and enjoy!
How To Make Greek Mac and Cheese
Enjoy a plate of this creamy Greek mac and cheese, made with whole wheat pasta, vegetables, and a savory and gooey cheese sauce for a tastier bite!
Serves:
Ingredients
- Kosher salt
- 8ozDelallo’s 100% Organic Whole Wheat elbow pasta
- cooking spray
- 1½tbspunsalted butter
- ½cupred onion,chopped
- 3garlic cloves,minced
- ¼cupall-purpose flour
- 2cupslow fat milk
- ½cupmozzarella,part-skim, shredded
- 5ozfeta cheese,divided, crumbled
- ½tspdried oregano
- ½tspdried marjoram,or thyme
- freshly ground black pepper,to taste
- 1½cupscherry tomatoes,or grape, quartered
- 10kalamata olives,pitted, chopped
- 3cupsfresh baby spinach,chopped
- fresh dill,or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. When boiling, add the macaroni and boil until just under al dente according to package directions.
-
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a deep casserole dish, roughly 8½x10½-inch, with cooking spray and set aside.
-
In a medium saucepot over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the red onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute more.
-
Sprinkle the flour over the top and stir, cooking for about 2 to 3 minutes. Then, add the milk, whisk until boiling, then remove from heat.
-
Add the mozzarella and ⅓ of the feta, then stir until mostly melted. Add the oregano, marjoram, pepper, diced tomatoes, olives, and spinach. Stir to combine, then add ¼ teaspoon of salt, or more as needed.
-
Transfer the mixture to the casserole dish, then top with the remaining feta cheese.
-
Bake for about 20 to 22 minutes or until top golden.
-
Garnish with dill, serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 358.75kcal
- Fat: 14.59g
- Saturated Fat: 7.48g
- Trans Fat: 0.12g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.75g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.38g
- Carbohydrates: 42.56g
- Fiber: 2.64g
- Sugar: 8.08g
- Protein: 14.57g
- Cholesterol: 40.10mg
- Sodium: 543.50mg
- Calcium: 300.13mg
- Potassium: 402.97mg
- Iron: 1.58mg
- Vitamin A: 161.04µg
- Vitamin C: 8.93mg
Key Technique for Mastering Greek Mac and Cheese
When making your Greek mac and cheese, it's important to not overcook your pasta. You want to boil it until it's just under al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This ensures your pasta maintains a nice texture and doesn't become too soft or mushy. Additionally, when adding your spinach to the cheese mixture, remember that spinach wilts down significantly. So, don't be alarmed if it seems like a lot at first. Lastly, for a more robust flavor, consider using a high-quality feta cheese. The quality of your cheese can greatly impact the overall taste of your dish.
Time-Saving Tips for Greek Mac and Cheese
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure out ingredients, and prepare what you can in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonders: Look for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup time.
Batch cooking: Make a larger portion and freeze the extra for a quick and easy meal on a busy day.
Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors, blenders, and stand mixers to speed up prep work and cooking.
Follow the recipe: Read through the entire recipe before starting to ensure you have all the ingredients and understand the steps, preventing any last-minute confusion.
Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized to avoid wasting time searching for utensils, ingredients, or tools.
Substitute Ingredients For Greek Mac and Cheese Recipe
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of salinity and flavor to the dish.
delallo's 100% organic whole wheat elbow pasta - Substitute with regular elbow pasta: Regular elbow pasta can be used as a substitute for a different texture and taste.
unsalted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the dish.
red onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onion can be used as a substitute for a milder flavor.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for a more convenient option.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier alternative.
low fat milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
mozzarella - Substitute with provolone: Provolone can provide a similar mild and creamy flavor to the dish.
feta cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese can provide a similar tangy and creamy flavor to the dish.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil can provide a similar herbaceous flavor to the dish.
dried marjoram - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can provide a similar earthy and slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
cherry tomatoes - Substitute with grape tomatoes: Grape tomatoes can be used as a substitute for a similar sweet and juicy flavor.
kalamata olives - Substitute with green olives: Green olives can provide a similar briny and tangy flavor to the dish.
fresh baby spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale can be used as a substitute for a heartier green in the dish.
fresh dill - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can provide a similar herbaceous flavor to the dish.
Presenting Greek Mac and Cheese
Elevate the plating: Carefully arrange the mac and cheese in a shallow, wide bowl or plate to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish. Ensure that each ingredient is visible and well-distributed for an enticing presentation.
Garnish with fresh dill: Sprinkle a generous amount of freshly chopped dill over the top of the mac and cheese just before serving. The vibrant green color and aromatic fragrance will add a touch of elegance and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a pop of color and delicate floral notes by garnishing the dish with edible flowers such as nasturtiums or pansies. These visually stunning additions will elevate the visual appeal of the mac and cheese.
Use high-quality serving ware: Select elegant, minimalist serving dishes that complement the rustic yet refined nature of the Greek mac and cheese. Opt for earthy tones or muted ceramics to create a sophisticated presentation.
Create a contrast with cherry tomatoes: Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and strategically place them on top of the mac and cheese to create a visually striking contrast. The vibrant red hues of the tomatoes will add visual interest to the dish.
Emphasize the layers: When plating, aim to showcase the layers of the mac and cheese, highlighting the creamy cheese sauce, the golden-brown top, and the colorful mix of tomatoes, olives, and spinach for a visually appealing arrangement.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the mac and cheese to stand out. Avoid overcrowding the plate, allowing the dish to take center stage and captivate the diners' attention.
Essential Tools for Making Greek Mac and Cheese
Large pot: A large pot is essential for boiling the pasta and other ingredients. It should be big enough to accommodate the pasta and water comfortably.
Saucepot: A saucepot is used for making the cheese sauce. It should be of medium size and have a sturdy bottom to prevent burning.
Casserole dish: A deep casserole dish, roughly 8½x10½-inch, is required for baking the mac and cheese in the oven. It should be oven-safe and lightly greased to prevent sticking.
Whisk: A whisk is necessary for stirring and combining the ingredients, especially when making the cheese sauce.
Cooking spray: Cooking spray is used to grease the casserole dish and prevent the mac and cheese from sticking to the sides.
Oven: An oven is needed for baking the mac and cheese until the top is golden and the dish is heated through.
Knife: A knife is essential for chopping the red onion, garlic, cherry tomatoes, and dill.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping and preparing the vegetables and herbs.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurement of ingredients is crucial in cooking, and measuring cups and spoons are essential for this purpose.
Baking dish: A baking dish is required for baking the mac and cheese in the oven. It should be the appropriate size for the recipe and oven-safe.
Stove: A stove is necessary for cooking the pasta, sautéing the onions and garlic, and preparing the cheese sauce.
Grater: A grater is needed for grating the mozzarella cheese, if not using pre-shredded cheese.
Oven mitts: Oven mitts are essential for safely handling the hot casserole dish when removing it from the oven.
Spatula: A spatula is useful for stirring the ingredients and transferring the mac and cheese mixture to the casserole dish.
Mixing spoon: A mixing spoon is necessary for stirring the ingredients when making the cheese sauce and combining the mac and cheese mixture.
Saucepan: A saucepan is used for boiling the pasta and should be large enough to hold the water and pasta comfortably.
Colander: A colander is essential for draining the cooked pasta before adding it to the cheese sauce.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet may be used to place the casserole dish on while baking to catch any potential spills and prevent messes in the oven.
Storing and Freezing Greek Mac and Cheese
Here are the detailed storing and freezing guidelines for Greek mac and cheese:
To store leftover Greek mac and cheese, allow it to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer the cooled mac and cheese to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Seal the container or bag tightly to prevent air from entering and causing the mac and cheese to dry out. Properly stored in the refrigerator, leftover Greek mac and cheese will last for 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze Greek mac and cheese for longer storage, follow these steps:
- Cool the mac and cheese completely to room temperature.
- Divide the mac and cheese into individual portions or freeze it as a whole in a freezer-safe baking dish.
- If freezing individual portions, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- If freezing in a baking dish, wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Frozen Greek mac and cheese can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen Greek mac and cheese:
- If frozen in individual portions, remove the desired number of portions from the freezer and place them in the refrigerator to thaw overnight.
- If frozen in a baking dish, remove the dish from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours, depending on the size of the dish.
- Once thawed, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the thawed mac and cheese to a baking dish if not already in one.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly.
- Bake the mac and cheese for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
- Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly.
- Let the reheated Greek mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving, as it will be very hot.
When reheating leftover or frozen Greek mac and cheese, you may notice that the texture is slightly different from when it was freshly made. The pasta may be a bit softer, and the sauce may not be as creamy. To help restore the creamy texture, you can stir in a splash of milk or cream before reheating.
If you find that the reheated Greek mac and cheese is a bit dry, you can also add a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top before baking to help moisten it and add extra flavor.
How To Reheat Leftover Greek Mac and Cheese
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover Greek mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the top to crisp up slightly. This method helps maintain the texture and prevents the pasta from drying out.
For a quicker option, reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place the desired amount of Greek mac and cheese in a microwave-safe bowl and add a splash of milk or cream to help maintain moisture. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (leaving a small vent for steam to escape). Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated to your liking.
If you have a bit more time, reheat the Greek mac and cheese on the stovetop. Place the leftovers in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream and stir gently until the pasta is heated through and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overheat, as this may cause the sauce to separate or become grainy.
For a crispy twist, transform your leftover Greek mac and cheese into mac and cheese balls. Scoop the cold mac and cheese into bite-sized balls, dip them in beaten egg, and coat them with breadcrumbs or panko. Fry the balls in hot oil until golden brown and crispy on the outside, and warm and gooey on the inside.
If you have a lot of leftovers, consider portioning the Greek mac and cheese into individual servings before storing it in the refrigerator or freezer. This way, you can easily reheat single portions as needed without having to thaw or reheat the entire batch.
Fascinating Fact About Greek Mac and Cheese
Greek mac and cheese is a fusion of traditional Greek flavors with the classic comfort food. It combines the creamy goodness of mac and cheese with the tangy flavors of feta cheese, kalamata olives, and fresh dill. This unique dish offers a delightful twist on the traditional mac and cheese, adding a Mediterranean flair to the beloved comfort food.
Is Greek Mac and Cheese Budget-Friendly for Home Cooking?
The Greek mac and cheese recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients such as pasta, milk, and spinach makes it budget-friendly. However, the inclusion of feta cheese and kalamata olives may slightly increase the overall cost. Considering the nutritional value and flavor profile, this recipe rates 8/10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a reasonable option for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Is Greek Mac and Cheese Healthy or Unhealthy?
This Greek mac and cheese recipe has some healthy elements, but it also contains ingredients that may not be considered the healthiest choices:
Healthy aspects:
- Whole wheat pasta provides more fiber and nutrients compared to regular pasta
- Spinach adds vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
- Tomatoes offer vitamin C and lycopene
- Onion and garlic provide antioxidants and flavor without adding significant calories
Less healthy aspects:
- The recipe uses butter and flour to make a roux, which adds saturated fat and calories
- Feta and mozzarella cheeses contribute to the high saturated fat content
- Whole milk is used, which is higher in fat and calories compared to lower-fat alternatives
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace the butter with olive oil to reduce saturated fat and increase heart-healthy monounsaturated fats
- Use a lower-fat milk alternative, such as 1% or skim milk, to decrease the overall fat and calorie content
- Reduce the amount of feta and mozzarella cheeses, or opt for lower-fat versions to minimize saturated fat intake
- Increase the proportion of vegetables, such as spinach and tomatoes, to boost the nutrient content and fiber
- Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant to enhance the nutritional value and variety of the dish
- Use fresh herbs like oregano and marjoram instead of dried to add more flavor and potential health benefits
By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of this Greek mac and cheese recipe while still maintaining its delicious flavors and textures.
Editor's Take on Greek Mac and Cheese
This Greek mac and cheese recipe is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean flavors and classic comfort food. The use of whole wheat pasta and fresh spinach adds a healthy twist, while the combination of mozzarella and feta cheese creates a rich and creamy texture. The addition of cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and aromatic herbs elevates the dish, providing a burst of freshness and complexity. The finished dish is a harmonious blend of savory, tangy, and herbaceous notes, making it a unique and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Enhance Your Greek Mac and Cheese Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Greek Mac and Cheese
Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Greek Mac and Cheese
Why trust this Greek Mac and Cheese Recipe:
This recipe offers a unique twist on a classic dish, combining the comforting flavors of mac and cheese with the vibrant and savory elements of Greek cuisine. The use of feta cheese and kalamata olives adds an authentic Mediterranean touch, while the incorporation of fresh dill and spinach enhances the dish with a burst of freshness. With the wholesome addition of whole wheat pasta and the careful selection of ingredients, this recipe promises a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making it a trustworthy and enticing choice for anyone seeking a delicious and wholesome meal.
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