Save A creamy, comforting pasta bake featuring whimsical snowflake-shaped pasta, made lighter with reduced-fat cheese and a crisp breadcrumb topping.
This pasta bake has become a family favorite because it combines comfort food appeal with a lighter twist, perfect for cozy dinners.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 300 g (10.5 oz) snowflake-shaped pasta (or any fun-shaped short pasta)
- Cheese Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter 2 tbsp all-purpose flour 500 ml (2 cups) low-fat milk 120 g (1 cup) reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese shredded 60 g (½ cup) reduced-fat mozzarella cheese shredded 30 g (¼ cup) grated Parmesan cheese 1 tsp Dijon mustard ½ tsp garlic powder ¼ tsp ground black pepper ¼ tsp salt (adjust to taste) Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
- Topping: 30 g (¼ cup) whole wheat breadcrumbs 1 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) Lightly grease a baking dish (about 1.5–2 liters/quarts)
- Step 2:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Cook the snowflake pasta according to package instructions until just al dente Drain and set aside
- Step 3:
- In a medium saucepan melt the butter over medium heat Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute to form a roux
- Step 4:
- Gradually whisk in the milk Cook stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 4–5 minutes)
- Step 5:
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar mozzarella Parmesan Dijon mustard garlic powder black pepper salt and nutmeg Mix until cheeses are melted and sauce is smooth
- Step 6:
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated
- Step 7:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish
- Step 8:
- In a small bowl combine breadcrumbs olive oil Parmesan and parsley (if using) Sprinkle evenly over the pasta
- Step 9:
- Bake for 15–18 minutes or until the topping is golden and the sauce is bubbling
- Step 10:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving
Save Gathering around this pasta bake always feels special, making family mealtime warm and inviting.
Notes
For extra veggies stir in 1 cup of steamed broccoli or spinach before baking Swap cheddar for Gruyère for a nuttier flavor Serve with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days
Required Tools
Large pot Saucepan Whisk Baking dish Mixing bowls Measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) milk and cheese (dairy) Check pasta and cheese labels if you have specific allergies
Save Enjoy this lighter take on a classic mac & cheese which balances indulgence with health conscious choices.
Recipe FAQ
- → What pasta works best for this bake?
Snowflake-shaped pasta adds a playful texture, but any fun-shaped short pasta like shells or cavatappi can be used.
- → Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Substitute reduced-fat cheeses with plant-based alternatives and use a non-dairy milk to maintain creaminess.
- → How do I get a crisp breadcrumb topping?
Mix whole wheat breadcrumbs with olive oil and Parmesan, then sprinkle evenly before baking to achieve a golden, crunchy crust.
- → Is it possible to add vegetables?
Yes, stirring in steamed broccoli or spinach before baking adds color, texture, and extra nutrients.
- → How long can leftovers be stored?
Keep leftovers refrigerated for up to three days in an airtight container for best freshness.