Save A creamy, comforting pasta bake featuring whimsical snowflake-shaped pasta, made lighter with reduced-fat cheese and a crisp breadcrumb topping.
I often made this dish on busy weeknights and loved how the whole family enjoyed a comforting meal without feeling too heavy.
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 my family together, reminding us of cozy dinners filled with laughter and comfort.
Notes
Serve with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days.
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.
Save This lightened mac and cheese bake makes comfort food feel guilt-free and enjoyable for everyone.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → What shapes of pasta work best for this bake?
Snowflake or other fun-shaped short pasta hold the sauce well and add visual interest.
- → Can the breadcrumb topping be made gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for a similar crispy texture.
- → What cheeses are used to keep the dish lighter?
Reduced-fat sharp cheddar, reduced-fat mozzarella, and Parmesan create rich flavor with less fat.
- → How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Stir in steamed broccoli or spinach before baking for added color and nutrients.
- → What is the best way to prevent the pasta from overcooking?
Cook pasta just until al dente following package directions to maintain texture after baking.