Light Southern Baked Mac & Cheese (Healthy Holiday Version)

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni (whole wheat or protein pasta optional)

• 1 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar

• ½ cup part-skim mozzarella

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1 cup low-fat milk

• 1 tbsp light butter

• 1 tbsp flour

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• 1 egg (optional — adds classic “Southern baked” texture)

• 1/4 cup shredded smoked Gouda cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray an 8×8 baking dish with nonstick spray.

2. Cook macaroni until al dente; drain and set aside.

3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

4. Whisk in flour and cook 30 seconds to form a light roux.

5. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth and slightly thickened.

6. Add the cheddar and mozzarella; stir until they are melted.

7. Remove from heat and stir in Greek yogurt and all seasonings.

8. (Optional) Whisk in the egg for a firmer, more traditional Southern baked texture.

9. Fold cooked macaroni into the sauce and mix well.

10. Pour into your baking dish and sprinkle a small handful of cheddar on top.

11. Bake 20–25 minutes, until golden around the edges and lightly crisp on top.

Calories

Approx. 280 calories per serving (½ cup serving)

Wine Pairing

• Chardonnay (creamy, perfect with cheese)

• Viognier (floral and balanced for holiday meals)