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top view of green mac and cheese in a white dish
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4.92 from 12 votes

Healthy Green Mac and Cheese

Healthy Green Mac and Cheese is a nutritious twist on this creamy pasta favorite! Made with whole wheat pasta, broccoli, spinach, and peas this dinner is a powerhouse of nutrients that kids and adults will love. Plus it’s dairy-free and vegetarian.
Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Servings: 5 -6
Author: Rena

Ingredients

  • 10 oz whole wheat elbow macaroni
  • 1 medium head of broccoli cut into small florets
  • 1 cup peas
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 2-3 green onions roughly chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1 handful of oregano leaves picked
  • 1 1/2 tbsp gluten free flour
  • 2 cups non-dairy milk of choice
  • 2 cups grated white cheddar cheese
  • Kosher salt and ground pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  • In a large pot of salted water cook the pasta according to package directions; drain 2-3 minutes before al-dente. Place drained pasta into an oven dish. Add broccoli florets and peas and stir to combine.
  • In a high speed blender add the spinach, green onions, garlic, oregano leaves and flour. Pour in the milk and blend until smooth. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
  • Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and cook over low heat, whisking occasionally for about 6-8 minutes, or until it thickens and it coats the back of a spoon. Stir in the cheese and whisk until melted and smooth.
  • Pour the sauce over the pasta and veggies in the baking dish.
  • Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cheese is bubbling and broccoli is tender.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy!

Video

Notes

  • Pasta: We use whole wheat pasta, but you can substitute for a gluten-free or white pasta as desired. You may also use lentil or chickpea pasta.
  • Veggies: Fresh vegetables will give you the best results in this recipe. We don’t suggest using frozen spinach or broccoli, as may make the sauce watery. 
  • Milk: Almond milk, coconut milk, or cashew milk would make good options. Any dairy-free milk option will work, but make sure it is unsweetened. 
  • Tips for the creamy sauce: Make sure to blend the sauce until very smooth before cooking for a creamy sauce.
  • Tips for pasta: Make sure to drain the pasta 2-3 minutes before it is al dente. It will continue to cook while baking.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cup | Calories: 429kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 47mg | Sodium: 481mg | Potassium: 292mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1290IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 492mg | Iron: 3mg