It’s getting cold, guys, and that means one thing: I need carbs. Specifically, carbs slathered in cheese for that most awesome of comfort foods, macaroni and cheese. My waistline, though, disagrees, so I went on a search for healthier versions and was delighted to find this recipe from Fit Men Cook. It’s a dish that fulfills all my cravings without loading up the calories, and it uses one of our favorite veggies to do it: butternut squash! Watch how it’s done.

You’ll Need

– 10 ounces quinoa elbow macaroni, uncooked (you can also substitute wheat macaroni)
– 1 medium butternut squash
– 8 slices turkey bacon (uncured, nitrate-free, from turkey meat)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 ounces goat cheese
– 1/2 cup reduced-fat parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
– 1/2 tablespoon fresh rosemary
– Sea salt & pepper to taste
– Chives

This dish looks so, so good. I love that it’s a healthier version of mac ‘n’ cheese that doesn’t lose the cheese completely. What do you think of it? Have you ever made anything similar?