Healthy Mac and Cheese
Serves 6
20 mins prep
20 mins cook
40 mins total
My Healthy Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food my family adores, and it’s perfect for kids! I can have it ready in just 40 minutes, made with whole wheat macaroni, plenty of veggies, and a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s lighter in calories and fat than traditional mac and cheese, making it a wholesome, satisfying option that’s a big win for everyone at the table.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions.
Add frozen (or fresh) broccoli to a pan over medium heat, saute with minced garlic, crushed red pepper, and a pinch of salt until slightly tender. Add kale/spinach towards the end and cook until the greens are wilted.
Meanwhile, heat 1½ cups milk in another large pot over medium-high heat until just simmering. Whisk the remaining 1/4 cup milk, flour, garlic powder, salt and pepper in a small bowl until combined. Add the flour mixture to the simmering milk; return to a simmer and cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture is thickened, 2 to 3 minutes.
Remove from the heat and whisk in Cheddar, Parmesan and mustard until the cheese is melted.
Drain the pasta and add to the cheese sauce. Add your veggies into the pasta mixture, and heat through (on low heat) until everything is combined.
Optional: Sprinkle some black pepper on top before serving.