Go Back
+ servings
Lighter Baked Mac and Cheese

Guilt-Free Lighter Baked Mac and Cheese with Spinach Delight

Enjoy a healthier take on a classic with this Lighter Baked Mac and Cheese featuring spinach and roasted peppers.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: PASTA
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Macaroni Can swap with other small pasta shapes
For the Veggies
  • 4 cups Baby Spinach Fresh or frozen; thaw and drain if frozen
  • 1 cup Roasted Red Peppers Can substitute with fresh bell peppers or omit
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 large Eggs Whisk well for smooth distribution
  • 3 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese Can try Monterey Jack or vegan options
  • 1 cup Cottage Cheese Choose low-fat versions for lighter results
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative
For Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust according to taste
  • 1/2 tsp Fresh Pepper Customize amount based on preference

Equipment

  • 3-quart casserole dish
  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your 3-quart casserole dish with nonstick spray.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add macaroni, and cook until barely al dente, about 6-7 minutes. Drain and transfer to a mixing bowl.
  3. Toss hot pasta with baby spinach and cover for 10 minutes to help the spinach wilt.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs until frothy, then mix in shredded cheddar, cottage cheese, sour cream, and salt until well combined.
  5. Fold the creamy egg mixture gently into the pasta and spinach until evenly coated. Mix in diced roasted red peppers.
  6. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle with remaining cheddar, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  7. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to a week.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2.5mg

Notes

Top with fresh parsley for added color and flavor if desired.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!