Healthy Baked Mac and Cheese
This Healthy Baked Mac and Cheese is a lighter twist on a beloved comfort food classic. Made with high-fiber pasta, Greek yogurt, and a blend of reduced-fat cheeses, it offers all the creamy, cheesy goodness you crave - without the extra calories.Topped with whole grain breadcrumbs and baked until bubbly and golden, it's the perfect family-friendly dinner that’s easy to prep, customizable, and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole wheat elbow macaroni or high-protein pasta
- 1 ½ cups low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt nonfat or low-fat
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp salt adjust to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ⅓ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs or crushed almonds
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter for mixing into the topping
Optional:
- 1 cup steamed cauliflower puree to blend into the sauce
Optional Add-ins:
- steamed broccoli, spinach, peas, or cooked chicken
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk the flour and milk together until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add cheese & seasonings: A Reduce heat to low. Stir in Greek yogurt, cheddar, mozzarella, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth. If using cauliflower puree, stir it in here.
- Combine with pasta: Pour the sauce over the cooked pasta and mix well to coat evenly.
- Transfer to baking dish: Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Make the topping: Mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the pasta.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Cool slightly before serving for best texture and flavor.