Creamy Kale and Pasta Bake (1 Hour)

Print

Print Recipe

This is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the nutritious goodness of kale with the rich, creamy texture of a cheese sauce, all baked together with your favorite pasta.

This dish is perfect for those looking for a satisfying vegetarian meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

It’s great for a family dinner, potluck, or any occasion where you want a warm, baked pasta dish that’s both delicious and wholesome. Ready to dive in?

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 8 oz pasta (such as penne, rigatoni, or farfalle)
  • 1 large bunch of kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: bread crumbs or Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta (15 minutes): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté Onion and Kale (10 minutes): In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the chopped kale and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from pot and set aside.
  3. Make Cheese Sauce (10 minutes): In the same pot, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for a minute. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, avoiding lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens. Stir in the cheddar cheese and nutmeg until the cheese melts. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Combine Pasta and Kale (5 minutes): Add the cooked pasta and kale mixture to the cheese sauce. Stir well to combine.
  5. Bake (20-25 minutes): Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. If desired, sprinkle with bread crumbs or Parmesan cheese for a crispy top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
  6. Serve (5 minutes): Let the pasta bake cool slightly before serving.

Notes

For the best results, be sure to cook the kale just until it’s wilted, so it retains some texture. The cheese sauce should be smooth and creamy.

For a crunchy topping, adding bread crumbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a nice contrast to the creamy pasta. This dish is a great way to enjoy a comforting pasta bake with the added health benefits of kale. Serve with your favorite bread and veggies and enjoy your meal!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.heresyourdinner.com/creamy-kale-and-pasta-bake-1-hour/