Low Fat Mac And Four Cheese With Squash Healthy Recipe

Craving mac and cheese but watching your waistline? This healthy twist on a classic comfort food is bursting with cheesy goodness and hidden veggies! Creamy four-cheese sauce blankets perfectly cooked macaroni and butternut squash, all topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. A delicious and surprisingly healthy weeknight meal the whole family will enjoy (even the picky eaters might be fooled!).

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 60 mins
Calories 386.6 kcal
Protein 36g
Rating 3.0 (2 Reviews)
Low Fat Mac And Four Cheese With Squash Healthy 16

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

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How to Make Low Fat Mac And Four Cheese With Squash Healthy

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente (about 5-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  4. While the pasta cooks, add 1 pound frozen butternut squash cubes and 2 cups milk to a large saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until squash is defrosted and tender (about 10-15 minutes).
  5. Increase heat to medium and cook until mixture is almost simmering. Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Stir until cheeses are melted and smooth.
  6. Pour cheese sauce over cooked macaroni and stir gently to combine.
  7. Transfer macaroni and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish.
  8. In a small bowl, combine ½ cup bread crumbs, ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
  9. Bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
  10. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

20 g

Sugar

24g

Fat

30g

Carbs

18g

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