What pasta works best for this bake?

Snowflake-shaped pasta adds a fun twist, but any short, firm pasta like elbow or shells will hold the sauce well.

How can I make the cheese sauce smoother?

Whisk the butter and flour roux thoroughly before gradually adding milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Yes, stirring in steamed broccoli or spinach before baking adds color and nutrients without altering texture.

A mixture of whole wheat breadcrumbs, olive oil, and Parmesan is sprinkled on top, creating a golden, crisp finish when baked.

Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days and reheat gently to retain creaminess.

A creamy, comforting pasta bake featuring whimsical snowflake-shaped pasta, made lighter with reduced-fat cheese and a crisp breadcrumb topping.

This pasta bake has become a family favorite on busy weeknights for its ease and flavor.

Pasta: 300 g (10.5 oz) snowflake-shaped pasta (or any fun-shaped short pasta)
Cheese Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 500 ml (2 cups) low-fat milk, 120 g (1 cup) reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese shredded, 60 g (½ cup) reduced-fat mozzarella cheese shredded, 30 g (¼ cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, ½ tsp garlic powder, ¼ tsp ground black pepper, ¼ tsp salt (adjust to taste), Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
Topping: 30 g (¼ cup) whole wheat breadcrumbs, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Step 1:: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a baking dish (about 1.5 2 liters/quarts).
Step 2:: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the snowflake pasta according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3:: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute to form a roux.
Step 4:: Gradually whisk in the milk. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 4 5 minutes).
Step 5:: Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and nutmeg. Mix until cheeses are melted and sauce is smooth.
Step 6:: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
Step 7:: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Step 8:: In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, olive oil, Parmesan, and parsley (if using). Sprinkle evenly over the pasta.
Step 9:: Bake for 15 18 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the sauce is bubbling.
Step 10:: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

We love gathering around the table to share this comforting dish, especially during cozy family dinners.

For extra veggies, stir in 1 cup of steamed broccoli or spinach before baking.

Large pot, saucepan, whisk, baking dish, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons.

Contains wheat (gluten), milk, and cheese (dairy). Check pasta and cheese labels if you have specific allergies.

This dish is easy to customize and always a hit—enjoy your lightened mac & cheese pasta bake!

→ What pasta works best for this bake?: Snowflake-shaped pasta adds a fun twist, but any short, firm pasta like elbow or shells will hold the sauce well.
→ How can I make the cheese sauce smoother?: Whisk the butter and flour roux thoroughly before gradually adding milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?: Yes, stirring in steamed broccoli or spinach before baking adds color and nutrients without altering texture.
→ What gives the topping its crunch?: A mixture of whole wheat breadcrumbs, olive oil, and Parmesan is sprinkled on top, creating a golden, crisp finish when baked.
→ How to store leftovers properly?: Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days and reheat gently to retain creaminess.