Healthier Than Kraft Macaroni Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this "Healthier Than Kraft Macaroni Cheese" recipe, a wholesome twist on everyone’s favorite cheesy classic. Featuring fiber-rich whole-grain elbow macaroni and a creamy sauce made from blended cauliflower, this lighter mac and cheese is packed with hidden veggies yet bursting with rich, cheesy flavor. A blend of sharp cheddar and Greek yogurt creates a velvety texture, while subtle hints of garlic powder and paprika add a flavorful kick. It’s quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes—and makes a satisfying meal for the whole family. Garnish with Parmesan for an extra touch of indulgence, and enjoy a guilt-free comfort dish that doesn’t compromise on taste. Perfect for weeknight dinners, kid-friendly meals, or anyone looking to enjoy a healthier mac and cheese alternative.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 8 ounces Whole-grain elbow macaroni
- 2 cups Cauliflower florets
- 1.5 cups Unsweetened almond milk (or low-fat milk)
- 1 cup Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 0.25 cup Plain Greek yogurt
- 0.5 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoon Paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.25 teaspoon Ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole-grain elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, steam the cauliflower florets until tender (about 6-8 minutes). Alternatively, you can microwave them in a covered bowl with 2 tablespoons of water for 5-6 minutes.
Transfer the steamed cauliflower to a blender or food processor. Add the almond milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Pour the cauliflower sauce into a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cook until the cheese has melted into the sauce, about 2-3 minutes.
Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the Greek yogurt until fully incorporated.
Add the cooked macaroni to the saucepan with the cheese sauce. Stir gently until the pasta is evenly coated.
Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1431 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 50.0 g | 64% | |
| Saturated Fat | 27.9 g | 140% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 133 mg | 44% | |
| Sodium | 2411 mg | 105% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 188.7 g | 69% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.9 g | 71% | |
| Total Sugars | 10.9 g | ||
| Protein | 71.3 g | 143% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.8 mcg | 19% | |
| Calcium | 1761 mg | 135% | |
| Iron | 9.1 mg | 51% | |
| Potassium | 1459 mg | 31% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
