Description
This healthy homemade mac and cheese recipe offers a deliciously creamy and cheesy pasta dish made with a flavorful blend of cheddar and parmesan cheeses, fresh herbs, and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, it’s a comforting family favorite with a healthier twist using skim milk and olive oil.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 lb elbow macaroni pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- ¾ cup onion, diced
- 1/2 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free)
- 1 – 1½ cups skim milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Breadcrumb Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions to ensure the pasta holds texture after baking. Drain and set aside.
- Make Sauce: In a sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, minced garlic, and pepper, sautéing until the onions are soft and golden brown, approximately 5 minutes. Gradually stir in the flour until a thick paste forms.
- Add Milk and Cheese: Slowly pour in the skim milk while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook the mixture until it thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and grated parmesan cheeses until fully melted and combined.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked pasta in the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture into a greased 8×8 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, melted butter, parmesan cheese, dried basil, dried parsley, and dried oregano to create a fragrant and crispy topping.
- Bake: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture generously over the mac and cheese in the baking dish. Place it uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the breadcrumbs turn a nice golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
- To make it richer, substitute skim milk with 2% or whole milk.
- Using freshly grated cheese enhances flavor and melting quality compared to pre-shredded cheese.
- Let the baked mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set for easier slicing.
- Optional: Add cooked vegetables or cooked chicken for added nutrition and heartiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
