Creamy Kale Mac & Cheese

Hearty, Healthy-ish twist on a classic comfort food.

Mac & Cheese is one of the all-time best comfort foods. I personally think it should be in its own food group. All of the possibilities are endless! You can pick almost any noodle you want, any cheese, and so many options for toppings. I know, you may be hesitant using Kale. It can be hard to get it perfectly tender, but this recipe solves that issue! Also, I may or may not have eaten this multiple times within 2 days. But it was too good to stop!

This recipe can easily be turned into a vegan meal by using making a Vegan Cheese sauce with Nutritional Yeast, Potatoes, and Carrots. (You can find an easy recipe online). Love that this recipe can be made in just 20 minutes. It is perfect for an easy weeknight meal or a quick lunch! If you try this recipe let me know what you think! Also, make sure to use #yellowforkfoodblog when posting your pictures/comments for the recipe. See the recipe and directions below.

Ingredients: (2 Servings)

Pasta

• 1 cup Pasta (I used Elbow Macaroni)

• 2 cups chopped Kale

• 2 cups Water

• 1/2tbsp Salt

Cheese Sauce

• 2 tbsp Butter

• 2 tbsp Flour

• 3/4 cup Milk

• 1 cup Mozzarella

• Salt and Pepper to taste

Directions:

1. On medium-high heat boil water and salt. Add pasta and cook for 5-6 minutes.

2. Add kale to the boiling water and cook with the pasta until noddle's are al dente.

3. Once cooked, strain pasta and kale and rinse with water. Set aside.

4. Next, begin the roux for the cheese sauce by melting butter in a pan over medium heat.

5. Once the butter is melted, you'll add in the flour and whisk until combined. Let that cook for 2-3 minutes stirring occasionally.

6. Then you will slowly add in the milk while whisking, this will start to thicken up the sauce. Let this cook for 2 minutes, while whisking.

7. Take the pan off the heat and stir in the cheese, add salt and pepper to taste.

8. Add the pasta and kale to the cheese sauce and stir to combine. Serve it up!