HEALTHIER MAC AND CHEESE WITH GREEK YOGHURT
This Healthier Mac and Cheese with Greek Yoghurt delivers all the comfort of classic mac and cheese while being a more nutritious option. This dish is made with whole wheat elbow pasta, reduced-fat cheddar cheese and protein-packed Greek yoghurt. It has a creamy texture without the need for heavy cream or excessive butter. The addition of mustard powder and garlic powder enhances the savoury depth, while unsweetened almond milk ensures a lighter yet smooth consistency. Add salt for taste. This dish is perfect for those who crave comfort food but want to maintain a balanced diet. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, a family-friendly dinner or a meal-prep option, this recipe comes together effortlessly in minutes. It’s high in protein, lower in fat and made with simple, wholesome ingredients. This dish is served as a satisfying main dish or as a nutritious side to complement your favourite meals.
RECIPE CATEGORY
and
Lunch, Dinner, Side
SERVING SIZE
1 serving
CUISINE
American
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Boil, Simmer
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Weeknight Meal, Family Dinner, Comfort Food, Kid-Friendly Meal
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Low Fat, High Protein, Quick & Easy, Kid Friendly
DISH TYPE
Pasta
INGREDIENTS
There are the following ingredients for Healthier Mac and Cheese with Greek Yoghurt:
- ½ cup whole wheat elbow pasta
- ¼ cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp plain Greek yoghurt
- ¼ tsp mustard powder
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ cup unsweetened almond milk
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 15g
- Fats: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fibre: 5g
- Sugar: 3g
PREPARATION
These steps are followed for the preparation of Healthier Mac and Cheese with Greek Yoghurt:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add whole wheat elbow pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, add almond milk, mustard powder, garlic powder and salt over low heat. Stir well.
- Melt the Cheese: Add the shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
- Incorporate Greek Yoghurt: Remove the pot from heat and stir in Greek yoghurt until thoroughly combined. This adds creaminess while maintaining a lighter texture.
- Combine with Pasta: Return the cooked pasta to the pot and mix until evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy warm as a main dish or a side.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
10 minutes
TIPS
These should be followed for the preparation of Healthier Mac and Cheese with Greek Yoghurt:
- Use Whole Wheat Pasta: Whole wheat pasta provides more fibre and nutrients than traditional white pasta.
- Don’t Overheat the Yoghurt: Stir Greek yoghurt in after removing the pot from heat to prevent curdling.
- Enhance the Flavour: Add a pinch of paprika or black pepper for extra depth.
- Adjust the Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of almond milk. If it is too thin, let it simmer for an extra minute.
- Make it Creamier: A teaspoon of light cream cheese can be added for an even richer consistency.
VARIATIONS
- Extra Protein: Stir in shredded grilled chicken or cooked lentils for a higher protein meal.
- Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add ¼ tsp of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Use dairy-free cheese and coconut yoghurt instead of Greek yoghurt.
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in steamed broccoli, peas or spinach for added fibre and nutrients.
- Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle toasted whole wheat breadcrumbs on top for a crispy texture.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of almond milk.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as Greek yoghurt can separate when frozen.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Cook the pasta and sauce ahead of time, then combine when ready to serve.
