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Are you ready to indulge in a warm embrace of cheesy goodness while still keeping your health goals on track? Look no further than this Cheesy Comfort Mac & Cheese Casserole with a Healthy Twist! This dish takes the classic mac and cheese we all know and love and elevates it with nutritious ingredients that don’t sacrifice any of the mouthwatering flavors.

Cheesy Comfort Mac & Cheese Casserole with a Healthy Twist

Indulge in a warm and cheesy delight with this Cheesy Comfort Mac & Cheese Casserole featuring a healthy twist! Enjoy the rich flavors of creamy cheeses and whole-grain pasta, enhanced with a medley of nutritious vegetables like zucchini and cauliflower. This dish offers the perfect balance of comfort and health, making it ideal for family dinners or cozy nights in. Easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying, this casserole proves that indulgence can be wholesome too!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups whole wheat elbow macaroni

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup zucchini, grated

1 cup cauliflower florets, steamed and chopped

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

2 cups low-fat Greek yogurt

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.

    Cook the whole wheat elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

        Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

          Add the grated zucchini and steamed cauliflower to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender.

            In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained macaroni, sautéed vegetables, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), Greek yogurt, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and half of the parmesan cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

              Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, then pour it into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.

                In a small bowl, combine the remaining parmesan cheese and whole wheat breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the macaroni and cheese.

                  Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

                    Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

                      Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 50 min | Servings: 6