Healthy Macaroni and Cheese

If you’re looking for a healthier baked mac and cheese recipe, look no further than this one made with cottage cheese! Originally from Cooking Light Magazine, we have been making this family-friendly recipe for years. 

 

Healthy Mac and Cheese: Lightened-Up Comfort Food Your Whole Family Will Love

Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food, but traditional recipes can be heavy on calories and saturated fats. As a mom who loves a good, cozy dinner, I wanted to find a healthier version that didn’t sacrifice flavor. This healthy mac and cheese recipe is a perfect alternative, loaded with creamy goodness, cheddar flavor, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, but lightened up for a more nutritious option. Best of all, I can prep this ahead of time (nap time, anyone?) and have a wholesome, comforting meal ready to go for dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This healthy mac and cheese checks all the boxes for a family-friendly dinner without skimping on flavor. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Comforting and flavorful, it has that classic creamy, cheesy taste we all love, even with lightened ingredients.
• High in protein and fiber: Using whole wheat pasta and cottage cheese boosts the nutritional profile, making this a more balanced meal.
• Perfect make-ahead dish: This dish is ideal for busy days. Prep it in advance, bake later, and enjoy a stress-free dinner.
• Customizable: You can make simple swaps to suit your family’s preferences and dietary needs.

What You’ll Need

Let’s go over the ingredients that make this healthy mac and cheese so delicious and satisfying:

• Whole wheat elbow macaroni: Using a whole grain option, like Barilla Plus, provides extra protein and fiber. Use your favorite pasta. 
• Reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese: Gives that classic mac and cheese flavor with less fat.
• Low-fat cottage cheese: Adds creaminess without all the calories.
• Nonfat sour cream: For a tangy creaminess that lightens up the dish.
• Skim milk: Keeps the sauce creamy while reducing fat.
• Grated fresh onion: Adds a subtle depth of flavor.
• Butter: The breadcrumb topping’s use of real butter (rather than margarine) makes it extra delicious.
• Breadcrumbs and paprika: For a crispy, golden-brown finish that adds texture and color.
• Salt, pepper, and fresh oregano: Simple seasonings for extra flavor and garnish.

How to Make Healthy Mac and Cheese

This recipe is simple to prepare, and using a casserole dish makes it easy to bake and serve. Here’s a step-by-step guide to putting it all together:

1. Preheat the oven and prep your casserole dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 2-quart casserole dish with vegetable cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the pasta: Boil the whole wheat elbow macaroni according to package directions, then drain and set aside. Be careful not to add too much pasta—stick with the recipe’s measurements to ensure a good cheese-to-pasta ratio!
3. Mix the cheese sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, low-fat cottage cheese, nonfat sour cream, skim milk, grated onion, melted butter, salt, pepper, and the lightly beaten egg. Stir until well combined.
4. Assemble the casserole: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and stir until the pasta is coated. Pour the mixture into your prepared casserole dish, smoothing it out evenly.
5. Prepare the breadcrumb topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the mac and cheese for that classic crispy topping.
6. Bake: Cover the casserole and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the cover and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and the breadcrumbs are golden. Garnish with fresh oregano sprigs if desired, and enjoy!

FAQ: Tips for Success

Can I make this healthy mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes! One of the best things about this recipe is that you can prep it ahead. Simply assemble the mac and cheese as directed, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in a low oven until warmed through.

Can I freeze this mac and cheese?

Yes, this healthy mac and cheese freezes well. To freeze, prepare the dish up to the baking step, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.

What can I serve with this healthy mac and cheese?

To round out your meal, serve this mac and cheese with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli. It’s also a great side dish for lean proteins like grilled chicken or fish.

Variations and Add-Ins

This healthy mac and cheese recipe is easily customizable. Here are a few ideas to add more flavor and variety:

• Add greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale before baking for extra nutrition.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs if you’re following a gluten-free diet.
• Spice it up: For a hint of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
• Add veggies: Finely chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli can add both flavor and color to the dish.

Why This Healthy Mac and Cheese is a Family Favorite

This recipe has become a staple in our family because it’s not only healthier than traditional mac and cheese, but it’s also loaded with flavor and comfort. The whole wheat pasta and reduced-fat cheese blend give it a wonderful texture and taste, while the lightened-up ingredients make it a guilt-free option. It’s the perfect balance of indulgent and nourishing, and I love being able to prep it ahead during nap time so dinner is ready when we need it.

If you’re looking for a cozy, healthier take on mac and cheese that your whole family will enjoy, give this recipe a try!