Not So Naughty Macaroni Cheese

Indulge in creamy, cheesy comfort without the guilt with our "Not So Naughty Macaroni Cheese"! This lighter twist on the classic mac and cheese features whole wheat macaroni and a velvety cauliflower-based sauce, blended with skim milk and just the right amount of low-fat cheddar for a rich, satisfying flavor. Topped with a crunchy mixture of whole wheat breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and fresh parsley, this bake delivers an irresistible golden crust. Packed with wholesome ingredients and easy to prepare in just 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a healthier family favorite. Enjoy all the decadence of mac and cheese while staying true to your health goals!

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 250 grams Whole wheat macaroni
• 300 grams Cauliflower florets
• 250 milliliters Skim milk
• 150 grams Low-fat cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 clove Garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
• 30 grams Whole wheat breadcrumbs
• 20 grams Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Step 1

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

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, boil or steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain and allow to cool slightly.

Step 3

In a blender, combine the cooked cauliflower, skim milk, 100 grams of the grated low-fat cheddar cheese, garlic, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 4

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

Step 5

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cauliflower cheese sauce. Mix until evenly coated.

Step 6

Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 7

In a small bowl, mix the whole wheat breadcrumbs, remaining 50 grams of cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the macaroni and sauce.

Step 8

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.

Step 9

Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your Not So Naughty Macaroni Cheese!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1037.2 grams (1037.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1817

Total Fat 43.10g	55%
Saturated Fat 16.10g	81%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.30g
Cholesterol 81mg	27%
Sodium 3105mg	135%
Total Carbohydrate 237.70g	86%
Dietary Fiber 31.70g	113%
Total Sugars 28.70g
Protein 106.40g	213%

Vitamin D 146IU	728%
Calcium 1824mg	140%
Iron 13mg	71%
Potassium 2373mg	50%

*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: 22.0%

Protein: 24.1%

Carbs: 53.9%