Our secret ingredient? Pureed winter squash
This healthier macaroni and cheese is perfect for those days when nothing else will do. Our version delivers the comfort of warm, gooey, cheesy goodness – without being high in fat. Pureed winter squash takes the place of some of the cheese, although you would never suspect it’s healthier from the deliciously creamy results.
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
½ pound of whole wheat macaroni
½ cup frozen peas
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 cup 1% milk
4 ounces Monterey jack cheddar cheese blend, shredded
2 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese
1 10 to 12oz package frozen pureed winter squash, thawed
Combine 2 tablespoons of panko breadcrumbs and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle on top of the pasta mixture in an 8 x 8 oven-safe dish and bake and 375°F for 20 minutes until bubbly. Then broil for 5 minutes or until top is browned
Makes 6 servings
Calories: 288
Total fat: 10g
Protein: 13.7g
Carbohydrates: 38.9g
Cholesterol: 27mg
Sodium: 187mg
Dietary fiber: 3.6g
Learn more about our editorial process.
Vegetarian or vegan, get your Thai fix with this flavor-filled and healthy dish
From Taco Tuesday to Salsa Sunday (yes, we made that up), these nutritious Mexican-inspired dishes are sure to please
A delicious twist on this classic dish
A satisfying and savory meal sure to impress family and friends
No more scrambling to figure out what to eat during your busy week
Whether as a main dish, a side or even a dessert, casseroles are the ultimate comfort food
Your metabolism may torch 1,300 to 2,000 calories daily with no activity
A gentle touch in all the right places may help drain your sinuses