Healthier Than Kraft Macaroni Cheese

Elevate your comfort food game with this "Healthier Than Kraft Macaroni Cheese" recipe, a wholesome twist on everyone’s favorite cheesy classic. Featuring fiber-rich whole-grain elbow macaroni and a creamy sauce made from blended cauliflower, this lighter mac and cheese is packed with hidden veggies yet bursting with rich, cheesy flavor. A blend of sharp cheddar and Greek yogurt creates a velvety texture, while subtle hints of garlic powder and paprika add a flavorful kick. It’s quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes—and makes a satisfying meal for the whole family. Garnish with Parmesan for an extra touch of indulgence, and enjoy a guilt-free comfort dish that doesn’t compromise on taste. Perfect for weeknight dinners, kid-friendly meals, or anyone looking to enjoy a healthier mac and cheese alternative.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 8 ounces Whole-grain elbow macaroni
• 2 cups Cauliflower florets
• 1.5 cups Unsweetened almond milk (or low-fat milk)
• 1 cup Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 0.25 cup Plain Greek yogurt
• 0.5 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 0.25 teaspoon Paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole-grain elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks, steam the cauliflower florets until tender (about 6-8 minutes). Alternatively, you can microwave them in a covered bowl with 2 tablespoons of water for 5-6 minutes.

Step 3

Transfer the steamed cauliflower to a blender or food processor. Add the almond milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 4

Pour the cauliflower sauce into a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cook until the cheese has melted into the sauce, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5

Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the Greek yogurt until fully incorporated.

Step 6

Add the cooked macaroni to the saucepan with the cheese sauce. Stir gently until the pasta is evenly coated.

Step 7

Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(990.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1431.1

Total Fat 50.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 27.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 133.2mg	0%
Sodium 2411.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 188.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 19.9g	0%
Total Sugars 10.9g
Protein 71.3g	0%

Vitamin D 150.0IU	0%
Calcium 1761.4mg	0%
Iron 9.1mg	0%
Potassium 1458.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 30.2%

Protein: 19.1%

Carbs: 50.7%