Creamy Greek Yogurt Mac n' Cheese

I love mac n' cheese, but with all the milk, butter, and creamy cheese, this hot and cheesy comfort dish is definitely a diet killer....until now. Check out this recipe for mac n' cheese lightened up with Greek yogurt! Mac n' Cheese is making a comeback! 

• 8 oz. (about 2 cups) elbow pasta (I used whole grain)
• 8 oz. (about 2 cups) shredded cheese (a sharp cheddar is great)
• 1/2 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt (I love Dannon Oikos)
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• salt & pepper, to taste
• 1/4 tsp. onion powder
• 1/4 tsp. garlic powder

Cook the macaroni according to the package’s instructions (about 8-10 minutes), until al dente.

Place the spinach leaves in the bottom of a strainer, and pour the pasta over top to drain and wilt the spinach.  Save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.  Return the cooked macaroni and wilted spinach to the pot.

Add about 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta water to the pot, and stir in the cheese until melted.  Stir in the greek yogurt, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, until smooth and creamy.  Stir in the remaining pasta water to thin, if necessary.  Serve immediately.

Sometimes I will add leftover white meat chicken or lean ground turkey, along with other veggies such as broccoli, peas, mushrooms, or sundried tomatoes. This is also really great with tuna!