Healthy Macaroni Cheese

Indulge in the creamy comfort of 'Healthy Macaroni Cheese,' a lighter twist on a classic favorite that doesn’t skimp on flavor. This wholesome recipe swaps traditional pasta for hearty whole wheat macaroni, while a velvety cheese sauce made with low-fat cheddar, Greek yogurt, and unsweetened almond milk delivers rich, guilt-free satisfaction. A subtle infusion of Dijon mustard, garlic, and onion powders adds depth to every bite, with an optional crunchy breadcrumb topping for added texture. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this quick 30-minute dish is packed with wholesome ingredients like baby spinach for a nutritious boost. Whether baked to golden perfection or served straight from the stovetop, this healthy mac and cheese is comfort food reimagined!

Nutriscore Rating: 77/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 250 grams whole wheat macaroni
• 500 milliliters unsweetened almond milk (or low-fat milk)
• 120 grams low-fat cheddar cheese, grated
• 100 grams plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons whole wheat flour
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 100 grams baby spinach (optional)
• 2 tablespoons whole grain breadcrumbs (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the whole wheat macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

While the macaroni is cooking, heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

Step 3

Whisk in the whole wheat flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.

Step 4

Slowly pour in the unsweetened almond milk (or low-fat milk), whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 5

Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 6

Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the grated low-fat cheddar cheese, stirring until smooth and fully melted.

Step 7

Remove the saucepan from the heat and gently fold in the plain Greek yogurt to create a creamy and tangy sauce.

Step 8

Optional: If you'd like to add greens, stir in the baby spinach until wilted.

Step 9

Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing well to coat all the pasta evenly.

Step 10

Optional: Transfer the macaroni cheese mixture to a greased baking dish, sprinkle with whole grain breadcrumbs, and place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the breadcrumbs are golden and crisp.

Step 11

Serve warm and enjoy your Healthy Macaroni Cheese!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1135.2 grams (1135.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1657

Total Fat 41.00g	53%
Saturated Fat 11.30g	57%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.40g
Cholesterol 53mg	18%
Sodium 2730mg	119%
Total Carbohydrate 222.40g	81%
Dietary Fiber 30.40g	109%
Total Sugars 14.00g
Protein 89.70g	179%

Vitamin D 237IU	1186%
Calcium 2144mg	165%
Iron 15mg	84%
Potassium 2067mg	44%

*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: 22.8%

Protein: 22.2%

Carbs: 55.0%