Crafty Mac ‘N Cheese

This Crafty Mac ‘N Cheese is a homemade twist on the classic comfort food, loaded with real cheddar, a hidden boost of veggies for nutrition, and a crispy breadcrumb topping that adds texture without deep-frying. It’s creamy, cheesy, and kid-approved while sneaking in extra goodness—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you want that nostalgic taste with a healthier upgrade. Ready in about 45 minutes, it’s budget-friendly and uses pantry staples.

Crafty Mac ‘N Cheese

Ingredients

For 6–8 servings, gather these items:

  • 400 grams elbow macaroni or small pasta
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk (low-fat or full)
  • 2½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup finely grated carrot (hidden veggie boost)
  • ½ cup frozen peas or finely chopped broccoli (optional extra veggies)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For crispy topping:

  • ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • ¼ cup grated cheddar or Parmesan

Direction

  • Step 1: Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Step 2: Cook pasta in salted boiling water 1–2 minutes less than package directions (al dente). Drain and set aside.
  • Step 3: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes to make a roux. Slowly pour in milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook 5–7 minutes until thickened and smooth.
  • Step 4: Reduce heat to low. Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gradually add shredded cheddar and Parmesan, stirring until melted and creamy.
  • Step 5: Mix in grated carrot and peas/broccoli (they’ll soften in the sauce). Fold in cooked pasta until evenly coated. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish.
  • Step 6: In a small bowl, mix panko, melted butter, and extra cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the top. Bake 20–25 minutes until bubbly and topping is golden and crisp. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrients Information

Per serving (approximate values with low-fat milk and moderate cheese):

  • Calories: 380 to 440
  • Total Fat: 16 to 20 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 9 to 11 grams
  • Cholesterol: 45 to 60 milligrams
  • Sodium: 500 to 650 milligrams
  • Total Carbohydrates: 42 to 48 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 3 to 5 grams
  • Sugars: 6 to 8 grams (natural from milk/veggies)
  • Protein: 18 to 22 grams
  • Good source of calcium and protein from cheese, vitamin A from carrots, fiber from pasta/veggies, and B vitamins for energy. A comforting dish with hidden nutrition—portion control keeps it balanced.

Recipes Credit

Contributed by United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Extension Service