Updated Mac & Cheese Recipe

Name: Updated Mac & Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese, 6 ounces; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil; 1 cup low fat cottage cheese; ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 ¾ cups 1% low-fat milk, divided; 10 ounces frozen spinach; ¼ teaspoon paprika; 3 tablespoons plain breadcrumbs; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 cups whole wheat macaroni

Servings: persons

2 cups grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese, 6 ounces
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
1 cup low fat cottage cheese
⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 ¾ cups 1% low-fat milk, divided
10 ounces frozen spinach
¼ teaspoon paprika
3 tablespoons plain breadcrumbs
½ teaspoon salt
2 cups whole wheat macaroni

1
Put a large pot of lightly salted water on to boil.
2
Preheat oven to 450F Coat an 8-inch square (2-quart) baking dish with cooking spray.
3
Mix breadcrumbs, oil and paprika in a small bowl.
4
Cook spinach according to package directions.
5
Drain and refresh under cold water; press out excess moisture.
6
Heat 1 1/2 cups milk in a large heavy saucepan over medium-high heat until steaming.
7
Whisk remaining 1/4 cup milk and flour in a small bowl until smooth; add to the hot milk and cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce simmers and thickens, 2 to 3 minutes.
8
Remove from heat and stir in Cheddar until melted.
9
Stir in cottage cheese, nutmeg, salt and pepper.
10
Cook pasta for 4 minutes, or until not quite tender.
11
(It will continue to cook during baking.)
12
Drain and add to the cheese sauce; mix well.
13
Spread half the pasta mixture in the prepared baking dish.
14
Spoon the spinach on top.
15
Top with the remaining pasta; sprinkle with the breadcrumb mixture.
16
Bake the casserole until bubbly and golden, 25 to 30 minutes.

520

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

A good 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well if you need a gluten-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 11 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 2 cups grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese, 6 ounces, 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil, 1 cup low fat cottage cheese, and more.

Yes, Updated Mac & Cheese falls under the Pasta & Noodles category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Updated Mac & Cheese

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions