Healthier Baked Macaroni And Cheese Recipe

Craving creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese but want a healthier twist? This recipe delivers! Inspired by 3killerb's recipe #208573, this lighter take on a classic uses zucchini to boost volume and flavor without adding extra calories. We've swapped out some ingredients to reduce fat while keeping the cheesy goodness intact. Sharp cheddar is key—the sharper, the better! Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Prep Time 20 mins

Cook Time 57 mins

Calories 294.6 kcal

Protein 45g

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The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Healthier Baked Macaroni And Cheese

Non-stick cooking spray, as needed
8 ounces whole wheat elbow macaroni
1 cup zucchini, chopped
1 1/2 cups reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 1/2 tablespoons nonfat dry milk powder
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
1 3/4 cups fat-free milk
1/2 cup liquid egg substitute
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/8 teaspoon onion powder
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder

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How to Make Healthier Baked Macaroni And Cheese

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook macaroni according to package directions, but reduce cooking time by 2 minutes.
Add diced zucchini during the last minute of macaroni cooking time.
Drain macaroni and zucchini; rinse with cold water.
In a small saucepan, whisk together 1/4 cup skim milk, powdered milk, and dry mustard until smooth.
Whisk in cornstarch until smooth and the mixture is slightly warmed.
Stir in the remaining skim milk and remove from heat.
Whisk in the egg substitute and season with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder (if using).
Lightly grease a 9x9 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Grate the cheddar cheese and reserve 1/4 cup for topping.
Layer 1/3 of the macaroni and zucchini mixture in the prepared baking dish.
Top with 1/2 of the grated cheese.
Repeat layers: add another 1/3 of the macaroni and zucchini, then the remaining 1/2 of the cheese.
Place the final 1/3 of macaroni and zucchini on top and sprinkle with the reserved cheese.
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

16 g

Sugar

Fat

23g

Carbs

11g

Recipe Categories (Choose a category and find related recipes!)

Main Courses Main Dish / Dinner Sweets & Sides Side Dishes The Americas American Healthy Vegetarian Game Day Recipes Baking

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Preparation Occasion Main Dish Eggs Dairy Pasta Oven Cheese Stove Top Dietary Comfort Food Pasta Rice And Grains Elbow Macaroni Taste Mood Equipment

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Healthier Baked Macaroni And Cheese?

Healthier Baked Macaroni And Cheese takes about 77 minutes from start to finish — roughly 20 minutes to prepare and 57 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in Healthier Baked Macaroni And Cheese?

Healthier Baked Macaroni And Cheese has approximately 294.6 calories per serving, with about 45 g protein, 11 g carbohydrates and 11 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for Healthier Baked Macaroni And Cheese?

The key ingredients for Healthier Baked Macaroni And Cheese are Cooking Spray, Whole Wheat Macaroni, Zucchini, Reduced Fat Cheddar Cheese, Non Fat Powdered Milk, Cornstarch. See the full list with measurements above.