Lightened Mac & Cheese Bake (Print Version)

Creamy snowflake pasta bake with reduced-fat cheese and crispy breadcrumb topping.

# Ingredient List:

→ Pasta

01 - 10.5 oz snowflake-shaped pasta (or any fun-shaped short pasta)

→ Cheese Sauce

02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
04 - 2 cups low-fat milk
05 - 1 cup reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
06 - ½ cup reduced-fat mozzarella cheese, shredded
07 - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
08 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
09 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
10 - ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
11 - ¼ teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
12 - Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)

→ Topping

13 - ¼ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
14 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
15 - 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
16 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

# Steps:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 1.5 to 2-quart baking dish.
02 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook snowflake pasta until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
03 - Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour continuously for 1 minute to form a roux.
04 - Gradually whisk in low-fat milk. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and nutmeg until smooth.
05 - Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
06 - Transfer pasta mixture to prepared baking dish. Mix breadcrumbs, olive oil, Parmesan, and parsley in a small bowl and sprinkle evenly over the top.
07 - Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until topping is golden and sauce is bubbling.
08 - Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

# Helpful Hints:

01 -
  • Lightened with reduced-fat cheese
  • Crisp breadcrumb topping for texture
02 -
  • Use whole wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber
  • Optional parsley adds fresh color and flavor
03 -
  • Do not overcook the pasta to avoid soggy bake
  • Whisk flour and butter thoroughly to prevent lumps in sauce
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