Save A creamy, comforting pasta bake featuring whimsical snowflake-shaped pasta, made lighter with reduced-fat cheese and a crisp breadcrumb topping.
I first served this to my family and they loved how the crispy topping added a delightful texture contrast.
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 This dish always brings the family together for a cozy meal especially on chilly evenings.
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.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 410, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 51 g, Protein: 21 g (per serving)
Save This lightened mac & cheese bake is a perfect blend of comfort and healthiness that your family will keep asking for.
Recipe Q&A Section
- → Can I use other pasta shapes?
Yes, any fun-shaped short pasta works well and makes the dish visually appealing.
- → How can I make the bake crispier?
Ensure the breadcrumb topping is evenly coated with olive oil and bake until golden brown.
- → What cheeses are ideal for this dish?
A combination of reduced-fat sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan delivers balanced flavor and creaminess.
- → Can I add vegetables to the bake?
Yes, stirring in steamed broccoli or spinach before baking adds nutrition and color.
- → How long should I bake it?
Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15–18 minutes until the topping is golden and the sauce bubbles.
- → Is it suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish includes no meat and fits a vegetarian diet.