THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Main Course
Cheesy Macaroni with Greek Yogurt and Spinach
This creamy and comforting dish combines the classic cheesy flavors you love with a healthy twist of Greek yogurt and fresh spinach. It's an easy, delicious way to sneak some greens into your meal without sacrificing taste.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Cheesy Macaroni with Greek Yogurt and Spinach
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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01
Step 1
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with foil. Lightly spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until it’s just tender but still has a little bite, about 8 minutes. Drain the pasta, but save about 2 1/2 cups of the pasta water before pouring the macaroni back into the pot.
02
Step 2
While the pasta cooks, spread the prosciutto out on the foil-lined baking sheet and pop it in the oven on the top rack. Let it crisp up for 6 to 8 minutes, keeping an eye so it doesn’t burn. Once crispy, roughly chop the prosciutto. Then lower your oven temperature to 350°F and move the rack to the middle position.
03
Step 3
Next, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute, then add garlic powder, cumin, red pepper flakes, and pepper, cooking for another minute. Stir in the Greek yogurt and cook until it starts to bubble, around 2-3 minutes. Slowly whisk in 1 1/2 cups of that reserved pasta water and let it simmer for a few minutes.
04
Step 4
Add the cream cheese and stir until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Then, gradually add the Gruyere and Cheddar cheeses in batches, stirring until everything is melted and the sauce is nice and thick. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little more of the reserved pasta water until you get the consistency you like.
05
Step 5
Mix the spinach right into the macaroni, then pour the cheesy sauce over it all and stir until the pasta is well coated. Transfer everything to your prepared baking dish, sprinkle the crispy prosciutto on top, and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the edges are bubbling and golden.
Why you’ll love it
This dish combines creamy cheese with the tangy freshness of Greek yogurt, making it rich but lighter than traditional mac and cheese. The addition of spinach adds a healthy boost of vitamins and a pop of color, making it both nutritious and comforting.
How to serve
Serve this alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It also pairs well with grilled chicken or fish to add some protein to your plate.
Storage & leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess if needed.
