Save to Pinterest A creamy, comforting pasta bake featuring whimsical snowflake-shaped pasta, made lighter with reduced-fat cheese and a crisp breadcrumb topping.
This pasta bake quickly became a family favorite whenever we want comfort food without the guilt.
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 to Pinterest We often gather around the table sharing stories and enjoying this cheesy comfort together.
Notes
For extra veggies stir in 1 cup of steamed broccoli or spinach before baking Swap cheddar for Gruyère for a nuttier flavor Serve with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal
Required Tools
Large pot Saucepan Whisk Baking dish Mixing bowls Measuring cups and spoons
Nutritional Information
Calories 410 Total Fat 13 g Carbohydrates 51 g Protein 21 g per serving
Save to Pinterest This lighter mac and cheese bake is perfect for cozy nights When topped with golden breadcrumbs it offers a delightful crunch
Common Questions
- → What pasta works best for this bake?
Short, fun-shaped pasta like snowflakes holds the cheese sauce well and adds visual interest, but any short pasta like elbow or shells works fine.
- → Can I use different cheeses?
Yes, swapping cheddar for Gruyère creates a nuttier flavor while still maintaining creaminess and meltability.
- → How do I get a crispy topping?
Mix whole wheat breadcrumbs with olive oil and Parmesan, then sprinkle evenly over the bake before oven time for a golden, crunchy crust.
- → Can I add vegetables?
Steamed broccoli or spinach stirred in before baking adds nutrition and texture without overpowering the creamy sauce.
- → How long should the bake rest before serving?
Letting the bake rest for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven allows the sauce to set slightly for easier serving.