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Healthy Mac and Cheese Recipe

Healthy Mac and Cheese Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 16 reviews

A wholesome and comforting Healthy Mac and Cheese recipe that uses roasted broccoli, flavorful butternut squash cheese sauce, whole wheat or legume-based pasta, and optional bacon for added protein. This dish combines creamy texture with nutritious ingredients, perfect for a balanced family meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 head broccoli (about 2–3 cups florets)
  • 1 pound butternut squash, peeled and cubed (about 4 cups)

Oils & Fats

  • 3 Tablespoons avocado oil, divided

Pasta

  • 16 ounces whole wheat elbows or shells (or lentil/chickpea pasta of choice)

Liquids

  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 1/2 cup milk

Seasonings

  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 teaspoons nutritional yeast (optional)

Cheese & Protein

  • 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon (or protein of choice)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F to prepare for roasting the broccoli.
  2. Prepare Broccoli: Wash and cut the broccoli into florets, then place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of avocado oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Roast Broccoli: Roast the broccoli in the oven for 18-20 minutes or until tender and slightly browned.
  4. Cook Pasta: While broccoli roasts, cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  5. Heat Oil: Warm the remaining 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a deep sauté pan or saucepan over medium-high heat.
  6. Sauté Butternut Squash: Add the peeled and cubed butternut squash to the pan and sauté for 4-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for 15-20 minutes until the squash is tender.
  8. Add Milk and Blend: Remove the pan from heat, add the milk, and stir to combine. Using an immersion blender or standard blender, blend the mixture until smooth to create a creamy butternut squash sauce.
  9. Heat Sauce and Add Seasonings: Place the blended sauce back in the pan over low heat. Add garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, nutritional yeast (if using), and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  11. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.
  12. Add Broccoli and Bacon: Gently mix in the roasted broccoli florets and cooked bacon or your preferred protein. Serve immediately and enjoy your healthy mac and cheese!

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or substitute with plant-based protein.
  • Nutritional yeast is optional but adds a subtle cheesy flavor and extra nutrients.
  • Using whole wheat or legume-based pasta increases fiber and protein content.
  • You can substitute butternut squash with sweet potato for a similar flavor and texture.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Nutrition

Keywords: healthy mac and cheese, butternut squash cheese sauce, roasted broccoli mac and cheese, whole wheat pasta recipe, low fat mac and cheese

Find it online: https://amayaharis.com/healthy-mac-and-cheese-recipe/