This macaroni and cheese bake is a delicious, healthier twist on a classic comfort food favorite. The whole wheat pasta and added vegetables make it a nutritious option that the whole family will love.
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (2 cups) whole wheat or whole grain macaroni
- 1 1/2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 1/2 cups cauliflower florets
- 2 cups skim milk (or milk of your choice)
- 1 1/2 cups reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons whole wheat flour
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions but undercook it slightly (about 2 minutes less than recommended). Drain and set aside.
- In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and blanch the broccoli and cauliflower florets for 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter (or heat the olive oil) over medium heat. Add the whole wheat flour and stir continuously to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
- Gradually whisk in the milk to the roux and continue stirring until the mixture thickens and is smooth.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the milk mixture. Stir well.
- Reduce the heat and gradually add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese while stirring until it’s fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, blanched broccoli, and cauliflower.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni and vegetables, mixing well to ensure even coating.
- Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your healthy macaroni and cheese bake!
For more healthy snack ideas check out our recipe book at: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0D4GFY8DC/ref=kwrp_li_stb_nodl
