Healthy Macaroni and Cheese

Indulge in a guilt-free comfort classic with this Healthy Macaroni and Cheese recipe, a creamy and nutritious twist on everyone’s favorite pasta dish. Made with wholesome whole-grain macaroni and a velvety sauce crafted from tender butternut squash, unsweetened almond milk, and sharp cheddar cheese, this dish offers the ultimate balance of flavor and health. A touch of Greek yogurt adds luscious creaminess, while spices like garlic powder and paprika deliver a subtle kick. Serve it straight from the stovetop or finish with a breadcrumb topping for a golden, crispy crust. Perfect for a family meal or quick weeknight dinner, this wholesome mac and cheese is proof that comfort food can be both delicious and nourishing.

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 8 ounces whole-grain elbow macaroni
• 2 cups butternut squash (peeled, seeded, and cubed)
• 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or low-fat milk)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 0.5 cup plain Greek yogurt (non-fat or low-fat)
• 0.25 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
• 0.25 cup breadcrumbs (optional for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the whole-grain elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, combine the butternut squash and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the squash is tender.

Step 3

Transfer the cooked squash and any remaining broth to a blender. Add the almond milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 4

Pour the blended mixture back into the saucepan over low heat. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated parmesan until melted and well incorporated.

Step 5

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the plain Greek yogurt until the sauce is silky and smooth.

Step 6

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated.

Step 7

Optional: Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish. Sprinkle the top with breadcrumbs and broil in the oven for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Step 8

Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1544.9 grams (1544.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2041

Total Fat 65.00g	83%
Saturated Fat 36.70g	184%
Polyunsaturated Fat NaNg
Cholesterol 172mg	57%
Sodium 4777mg	208%
Total Carbohydrate 284.00g	103%
Dietary Fiber 27.20g	97%
Total Sugars 22.50g
Protein 104.10g	208%

Vitamin D 124IU	620%
Calcium 2366mg	182%
Iron 15mg	82%
Potassium 3033mg	65%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 27.4%

Protein: 19.5%

Carbs: 53.1%