Florentine Macaroni Bake
A creamy spinach and cheese baked pasta dish with a cheesy, savory flavor profile. Perfect for family dinners, it combines comfort food with healthy greens in a hearty casserole.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare macaroni and cheese according to package instructions, omitting margarine.
- Add cream cheese to the cooked macaroni, stirring over low heat until melted.
- Fold in cooked and drained chopped spinach.
- Add beaten eggs, cooked bacon, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a 9-inch spring-form pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or heavy cream while mixing in the cream cheese. If you want to enhance the flavor, try adding minced garlic or onion powder. You can substitute frozen spinach with fresh if desired, just make sure to sauté it first to reduce moisture. To elevate this dish, serve it with a side salad or pairs beautifully with Old-Fashion Pecan Pie for dessert.
Serving Suggestions
This Florentine Macaroni Bake makes a comforting main dish, perfect for a family dinner. Consider serving it with a light green salad or garlic bread on the side for a complete meal. It also pairs well with Nut And Cracker Snack for a delightful appetizer before the main course.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can bake the whole dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed, ensuring it stays moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Florentine Macaroni Bake contains roughly 349 calories, with 9g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value), calcium (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2229mg per serving (97% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cream cheese adds a rich creaminess, you can substitute it with ricotta or cottage cheese for a different flavor profile. Cheddar or mozzarella can also be mixed in for extra cheesiness. Just be sure to adjust the amounts based on the desired creaminess and flavor.
What can I add for extra protein?
You can easily boost the protein in this dish by adding cooked chicken, turkey, or even cooked sausage. For a vegetarian option, consider incorporating chickpeas or white beans. Just mix them in when adding the spinach for an extra hearty bake.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese mixture and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to serve, simply pour it into the spring-form pan and bake as directed. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).