10 Healthy Baking Substitutes Everyone Should Know

Basil Brussels Sprouts Mac and Cheese

Have a significant other, friend, or child who refuses to eat Brussels sprouts? This is an easy way to sneak it into a meal. (via Brit + Co)

Mac and Cheese Muffins

This is the all-time best way to serve mac and cheese to a crowd. No messy baking dish, just individual portions that guests can serve themselves. (via Brit + Co)

Microwave Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Short on time? Whip up this easy, delicious mac and cheese recipe in your microwave. We’d even serve it for a dinner party. Your guests will have no idea the oven stayed off. (via Brit + Co)

Big-Hearted Mac and Cheese with Artichokes

Artichoke hearts give the perfect salty, briny tang to a mac and cheese recipe. What can we say? We heart it. (via The Kitchn)

Easiest Baked Macaroni and Cheese

We love recipes with surprising ingredients, and this mac and cheese does not disappoint. The key to its creamy goodness? Cottage cheese! Who knew? (via Smitten Kitchen)

Baked Macaroni

We’d make this mac and cheese solely on the basis that it’s baked in a cast iron skillet. Comfort food to the max! (via A Beautiful Mess)

Sweet Peas and Shells Alfredo

Let’s be honest, Alfredo is just another name for mac and cheese. It might be a bit classier, but it’s basically the same thing. (via Shutterbean)

Vegan Mac and Cheese

If you’re sensitive to dairy, but can’t give up on this dish, try this version. We promise you won’t miss the milk! (via Love & Lemons)

Layered Italian Baked Mac and Cheese

Say "ciao" to ordinary mac and cheese! These Italian-inspired layers bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your dinner table, making it a cheesy masterpiece worth savoring. (via Vikalinka)

Vegetarian Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Brie Bacon Macaroni and Cheese

Easy Beer Mac and Cheese

Yes, you read that right — beer in mac and cheese. We're guessing this is going to be a game day favorite all through football season. (via How Sweet Eats)

Roasted Summer Vegetable Mac and Cheese

Channel summer with this deliciously crispy mac and cheese recipe. All those veggies make it health food in our book. (via How Sweet Eats)

Lightly Cheddared Spinach Ricotta Mac and Cheese

If you don’t like heavy mac and cheeses, try this version made mostly with ricotta, and just a sprinkling of cheddar on top. (via Food52)

Lobster & Shrimp Mac and Cheese

The buttery lobster and shrimp make this version of mac and cheese incredibly decadent. (via Table for Two)

Truffled Three Cheese Mac and Cheese

Something about adding truffle oil makes a basic mac and cheese recipe seem more grown-up. Making it with whole wheat pasta doesn’t hurt either. (via Turntable Kitchen)

Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Because sometimes, you just can't beat a classic. This baked mac and cheese recipe brings you the timeless flavors you know and love, baked to perfection. (via Completely Delicious)

Roasted Red Pepper Harissa Mac and Cheese

Spice up your mac game with the bold flavors of roasted red pepper and harissa. It's a fiery twist that'll have your taste buds dancing in delight. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Creamiest Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

Set it, forget it, and come home to a pot full of pure comfort. This slow-cooked sensation is the epitome of creamy dreams, making it the perfect fix for your laziest (and cheesiest) days. (via The Girl On Bloor)

Cheddar And Gruyere Mac and Cheese with Polish Kielbasa

Add a kick to your mac with this savory twist. The combo of cheddar, gruyere, and Polish kielbasa creates a total flavor explosion. (via Vikalinka)

Bacon & Pea Mac and Cheese

Adding bacon and peas to your favorite mac and cheese recipe makes it a full meal instantly. Well, maybe you need a side salad, too. (via The Kitchy Kitchen)

Easy 30-Minute Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese

Short on time, but craving a bowl of cheesy goodness? Look no further! This lightning-fast stovetop version guarantees a speedy fix without sacrificing flavor. (via Averie Cooks)

Vegan Southwest-Inspired Mac and Cheese

Even the most cheese-loving person will be reaching for seconds with this Southwest-inspired vegan masterpiece. It's so good, you won't believe it's dairy-free! (via The Edgy Veg)

Smoky Bacon Mac and Cheese

Clearly we can’t get enough bacon. Can you blame us? (via Food52)

Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

If you want a fall flavor, but pumpkin isn’t your thing, try this butternut squash version. It’s just as tasty! (via Always Order Dessert)

Bacon Macaroni and Cheese Balls

A bit more labor intensive than the macaroni muffins, these mac and cheese balls are worth it for the crispy fried exterior. Oh, right, and they have bacon. (via Kirbie’s Cravings)

Blue Cheese Mac and Cheese

This recipe has that distinct funky tang that could only come from blue cheese. It might not be for everyone, but we love it.(via How Sweet Eats)

One-Bowl Microwave Macaroni and Cheese

If you still believe the boxed mac is best, but want to give up all the processed ingredients, make this microwave recipe. It’s healthier, so you don’t have to feel bad eating it. (via The Kitchn)

White Cheddar Truffle Mac and Cheese

Elevate your mac game with the decadent duo of white cheddar and truffles. This dish is so posh, it might just outshine your favorite little black dress at the next dinner party. (via The Girl On Bloor)

Creamy Vermont Mac and Cheese

Take your taste buds on a journey to Vermont with this creamy concoction. Loaded with the finest cheeses, it's a trip to dairy heaven without ever leaving your kitchen. (via Averie Cooks)

Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Breadcrumb Topping

Crunchy, gooey, and oh-so-satisfying. This baked mac and cheese takes the classic to new heights with a golden breadcrumb topping that'll have your guests fighting for the last spoonful. (via Vikalinka)

Homemade Macaroni and Cheese

Sometimes simple is best. This classic homemade mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, bringing you back to the basics with every creamy bite. (via Clean Cuisine)

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Butternut squash takes center stage in this vegan twist on the classic mac. Creamy, dreamy, and entirely plant-based, it's comfort food without the guilt! (via The Edgy Veg)

Vegan Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Up your veggie intake with this cauliflower-packed mac and cheese recipe. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Spicy Macaroni and Cheese

Along with a host of veggies, chili powder gives this cheesy recipe an extra kick. (via Kurry Leaves)

Dairy-Free Mac and Cheese

For our lactose-intolerant friends, fear not! This dairy-free delight proves that you don't need milk to create a bowl of cheesy perfection. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Macaroni and Cheese with Cauliflower

Another veggie that’s easy to disguise in mac and cheese? Cauliflower! When it’s baked, it has almost the same consistency as the noodles. (via Shutterbean)

Mediterranean Mac and Cheese

Adding in chickpeas and onions gives this recipe some Mediterranean flair. You could also use couscous instead of elbow macaroni. (via Food52)

Pumpkin Macaroni and Cheese with Bacon

It wouldn’t be fall without the addition of pumpkin to every single recipe, ever! Luckily, this pumpkin mac and cheese is good enough to enjoy year-round. (via Lauren’s Latest)

Chicken Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese

Get your protein fix with this hearty variation. Tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and cheesy goodness make for a mac and cheese meal that's both comforting and substantial. (via Completely Delicious)

20-Minute Stovetop White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

Mac + Cheese Donuts

Nothing helps warm you up in wintry weather like comfort food, especially cheesy macaroni. For party season, put it in handheld form with our donut-shaped recipe. (via Brit + Co)

Breakfast Sandwiches

If you're having a breakfast or brunch party (coffee! pastries! pj's!), then definitely add these mini sandwiches to the menu. They're savory, sweet, and literally so delicious. (via Brit + Co)

Easy Christmas Cookies

Every party needs some sweets, and these Christmas cookies are as festive as they come. They look amazing, and they're actually super easy to put together, which makes us love them even more. (via Brit + Co)

Butter Candles

Upgrade your usual bread and butter spread with this TikTok food trend that will leave your guests in awe. Make a savory butter candle, a sweet one, or one of each! (via Brit + Co)

Red Velvet Cheesecake

This cheesecake will taste amazing no matter how you serve it. Grab some festive plates or make a variety of tiny cheesecakes with a muffin tin. (via Brit + Co)

Chocolate-Pecan Treat

This dessert doesn't just have to be for Thanksgiving. The sweet flavors definitely work all winter long, but we wouldn't say no to some candy cane pieces on top ;). (via Brit + Co)

Sweet Chai Latte Cupcakes

If we're honest, anything that's reminiscent of our favorite winter drinks is a Christmas party food in our books. Chai spice mix *and* a bag of chai tea really bring out the flavors of this recipe. (via Brit + Co)

Cheesy Crushed Potatoes

This recipe from Rachael Ray can be served with pork chops or on their own as a Christmas party food. Baking your Yukon potatoes and then smashing 'em with a glass creates an elevated look without any extra effort. (via Brit + Co)

Slow Cooker French Onion Soup

Dish out these soups in tiny bowls to make them crowd-friendly. Don't forget a piece of bread for each bowl too! And cheese...you definitely don't want to forget the cheese. (via Brit + Co)

Everyone Will Want To Try These Christmas Party Foods

Ranch Pretzel Bites

Take your favorite sourdough pretzels and bake them in a tangy ranch coating for this delicious crowd-pleaser. Pretzel bites are a party staple any day of the year, but the seasoning makes these a special occasion all their own. (via Sweet Cayenne)

Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread With Marinara Dipping Sauce

This pull-apart bread is savory, not sweet — each little ball of dough is stuffed with cheese. It’s like biting into little heavenly pillows of doughy goodness. (via Eclectic Everyday)

Snowman Cheese Ball

Instead of a corn-cob pipe and a button nose, this snowman has a carrot nose and peppercorn buttons! He'll pairs well with your favorite crackers or chips. (via Number 2 Pencil)

Toasted Ravioli

Crispy and crunchy on the outside and meaty and tender on the inside, toasted ravioli is basically faux-fried food at its finest. (via Small Town Woman)

Reindeer Chow

Ever wonder what Santa feeds Rudolph? Look no further than this festive take on "muddy buddies." (via Averie Cooks)

Shrimp Dip

A cheesy seafood favorite for parties, this dip is simple to make with just a few ingredients. Pair it with thick sourdough bread and enjoy! (via Food Lovin' Family)

Cheesy Vegan Mashed Potato Pancakes

Now this is how to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes for the party season. They go especially well with some sliced avocado or cashew cream. (via Connoisseurus Veg)

Pomegranate Honey Ricotta Toast

So, toast may be a bit of an undertaking for party noshing, but your guests will be wowed by this sweetly delicate combination. It's cheesy, it's rich, it's fluffy — the end. (via Joyful Healthy Eats)

Lasagna Zucchini Boats

This appetizer has all the delicious flavors of veggie lasagna, but you can serve them up without utensils. Finger foods for the win! (via Cooking Classy)

You Don't Want To Miss These Christmas Party Recipes

Deep Fried Macaroni and Cheese

A classic take on deep-fried snacks, these macaroni and cheese balls are breaded, warm, and gooey. Those are all the best parts of a party food if you ask us. (via Girl Carnivore)

French Onion Smashed Potato Bites

If you're wondering what the difference is between a smashed potato and a mashed one, you're not alone. These gently squished baby potatoes serve as a base for all that melty cheesy and caramelized onion. (via Give It Some Thyme)

Cranberry & Brie Bites

These little phyllo bites could not be easier to make. But better prepare a double batch, because your peeps are going to make like starved animals the minute you pop these out of the oven. (via Kitchen Sanctuary)

Baked Brie en Croute

Cheese is such a crowd-pleaser, and even better when the cheese is pungent melted brie. (via Olivia’s Cuisine)

Bacon & Cheese Potato Croquettes

There’s something magical that happens when yummy mashed potato batter meets crispy bacon and sharp mature cheddar. Bet you’re salivating just thinking about it... (via Simply Delicious)

Roasted Butternut Squash Flatbread with Goat Cheese

Nothing shares better at a party than a flatbread. This one is your one-slice-pleases-all for winter flavors your guests will love. (via Give It Some Thyme)

Latke Sliders

Latkes? Check. Endless filling combinations for every night of Hanukkah and then some? Check. A holiday recipe that's sure to have something for everyone? Check check check! (via Jamie Geller)

Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cinnamon Browned Butter Buttercream

Cute gingerbread Christmas cupcakes are an absolute must at your party! The warmth of each bite will fill your guests with delight. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Citrus Spice Glazed Ham

A fun and festive Christmas party calls for a delicious ham — kudos if it has a citrus spice glaze drizzled over it. (via Completely Delicious)

These Christmas Party Food Ideas Will Be A Hit!

Southern Smothered Chicken

Smothered chicken is one of the South's staples, but we know this recipe will be a hit no matter where you throw your Christmas party. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

One Pot Sausage Pasta

Don't discount the wonderful way that pasta can be a part of your meal spread. It's a one-pot dinner recipe you'll reach for well after the holidays. (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

Sea Salt Chocolate Fudge

Biting into sea salt chocolate fudge on Christmas sounds like sheer heaven. (via The Bossy Kitchen)

Christmas Appetizer Ideas

Bacon Pastry Twists with Beer Cheese

While cradling a cocktail in one hand, an easy-to-grab appetizer is essential. These flaky, cheesy bacon twists are both easy and delicious to dunk in a three-cheese beer dip. (via Brit + Co)

Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Bites

A red and green holiday treat without sugary sprinkles? Count us in. These phyllo shells are filled with whipped pesto cream cheese and topped with basil and sun-dried tomatoes for some yummy Christmas food. (via Well Plated by Erin)

Cranberry Goat Cheese Balls

These cranberry goat cheese balls are the perfect balance of salty and sweet — a definite crowd-pleaser for any Christmas dinner! (via Chef Genevieve)

Holiday Crostini Trio

Spread avocado, mascarpone, and provolone onto toasted baguette slices for a tasty appetizer, and top away for three versatile holiday food ideas that will please any palate at your holiday party. (via The Baking Fairy)

Honey Almond Baked Brie

Add this this gooey, sweet, and salty baked brie to your Christmas dinner menu and guests will gather around it like it's a fireplace on a cold day. (via The Seasoned Mom)

Christmas Food Ideas For Side Dishes

Sesame Shrimp Pastry Puffs

The seafood lover in your home will be elated to munch on these sweet and umami-rich (thanks to the oyster sauce) sesame shrimps blanketed in buttery puff pastry. You'll definitely want to add this dish to your best Christmas recipes list! (via Brit + Co)

Cheesy Sweet Potato Gratin

This savory combination of sage, gruyère cheese, and heavy cream is here to make sweet potato casserole even more indulgent. This is definitely one of our favorite Christmas dinner ideas. (via Brit + Co)

Healthy Butternut Squash Salad

Fill your guests' bellies with the seasonal flavors of butternut squash, apple cider, and pecans. The bacon is just the icing on the cake, so to speak. (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Romanesco Christmas Trees with Parmesan "Snow"

Turn Romanesco broccolis into snow-capped trees with just six ingredients in this healthy yet cheesy dish for your next party. (via Brit + Co)

Slow Cooker French Onion Soup

Nothing will warm you to your toes quite like a good soup, and whipping one up in the slow cooker can save you time, mess, and energy. This French onion creation is a perennial favorite. (via Brit + Co)

Waffle Iron Latkes

These latkes make the perfect addition to any celebration, and the best part is how easy they are! From an apple butter topping to pomegranate and Greek yogurt, there's something for everyone. (via Brit + Co)

Cornmeal Biscuits with Cheddar, Chives, and Jalapeños

These slightly spicy biscuits are ideal for soaking up all that gravy goodness. (via Brit + Co)

Taco Salad

Okay, you might be thinking, "why in the world would someone serve taco salad at Christmas?" But hear us out – this recipe is full of delicious veggies, and it's just brimming with color. Keep things red and green to stay festive, or go all-out with every color of the rainbow. (via The Girl on Bloor for Brit + Co)

Crispy Leaf Potatoes with Rosemary Butter

If ever there were a bulletproof case for buying a mandoline, it's these potatoes, which are sliced chip-thin, layered upright in a baking dish, and gloriously bathed in salty rosemary butter. (via Rasa Malaysia)

Cozy Pumpkin Curry

If you're looking for vegan Christmas recipes, look no further than this warming, insanely delicious, and seasonal pumpkin curry. Just leave out the fish sauce to make it fully plant-based! (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

5-Ingredient Christmas Salad

A complicated salad is the last thing you need to worry about when picking out Christmas dinner recipes. This palate-cleansing dish is simply butter lettuce, pomegranate seeds, and a white wine vinaigrette. (via My Kitchen Love)

Main Dish Ideas For A Christmas Feast

If you're tasked with cooking the bird this holiday season, look no further than this foolproof roast turkey recipe. (via Brit + Co)

Beef Short Ribs with Vegetables

Make a statement with a delicious short rib recipe that's cozy, filling, and features an unbelievable wine sauce. Everyone will be talking about it until next Christmas. (via Baldacci Family Vineyards for Brit + Co)

Cranberry Glazed Turkey

Make your turkey extra-special with a delicious cranberry-pomegranate glaze everyone is sure to adore. (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Roasted Chicken with Carrots

For a Christmas dinner or otherwise, every home cook needs a roast chicken recipe in their back pocket. Start with this step-by-step recipe, which shows you how to stuff, truss, roast, and baste the bird until juicy and golden brown. (via Simply Recipes)

Prosciutto-Wrapped Pork Loin with Apple and Rice Stuffing

This dish combines a classic holiday side with a crowd-pleasing main, and it's wrapped in prosciutto for a show-stopping finish. (via Host The Toast)

Creamy Tortellini Vegetable Soup

Pasta doesn't get enough credit when it comes to holiday recipes, but nothing's cozier than a delicious bowl of warm tortellini. Except tortellini soup, that is! (via Half Baked Harvest for Brit + Co)

Roast Beef Tenderloin with Mushrooms and White Wine Cream Sauce

This melt-in-your-mouth holiday meal is cooked in one pan in under an hour. Sauté mushrooms in an oven-safe skillet, put the beef on top, roast, rest, and make a cheesy, herby cream sauce with the pan drippings. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Turkey Roulade with Apple Cranberry Stuffing

This dish is all about texture, from the crispy bacon coat to the tender turkey in the middle and soft stuffing interior. This is one Christmas dinner recipe you won't want to miss out on. (via Boulder Locavore)

Delicious Christmas Dessert Ideas

Keto Eggnog

Got guests who are committed to the low-carb lifestyle? This keto eggnog is the perfect dessert to serve the carb-conscious. (via Annelies Zijderveld for Brit + Co)

Peppermint Bark

This easy peppermint bark recipe is so simple to make, you'll have plenty of time on your hands for more ambitious endeavors — like cooking the turkey. (via Jessica Smith Wall for Brit + Co)

Holiday Puppy Chow

Your go-to sweet treat gets a festive upgrade when you add in red and green candy! Bonus points if you have a red or green bowl to put it in. (via Brit + Co)

Jacques Torres' Chocolate Chip Cookies

No surprise here: the secret to Torres' high-quality chocolate chip cookies is high quality ingredients, like butter, flour, and chocolate. Letting the dough age for 24 hours and sprinkling it with sea salt at the end doesn't hurt, either. (via Jacques Torres for Brit + Co)

3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

When it's your first year hostessing, the simpler you can keep your Christmas dinner recipes, the better. That's why we're huge fans of these 3-ingredient vegan Christmas cookies. (via From Eat Your Feelings by Lindsey Smith for Brit + Co)

Baked Hot Chocolate Donuts

Donuts are an all-purpose treat that can serve as Christmas breakfast, brunch, or dessert. This baked hot chocolate-inspired version doesn't require any special tools to make and is uber delicious. (via Half Baked Harvest for Brit + Co)

Dulce de Leche Cream-Filled Churro Donuts

These six-ingredient donuts, made with biscuit dough, have a cinnamon-y exterior and a rich dulce de leche filling that pairs wonderfully with Mexican hot chocolate. (via Brit + Co)

Eggnog French Toast

Another recipe you can serve as a Christmas dinner or brunch is this sweet French toast. The secret to nailing that 'nog flavor is the nutmeg and vanilla combo. Yum. (via St Pierre Bakery for Brit + Co)

Easy Vegan Slow Cooker Hot Cocoa

Give your oven and your plates a break and add this dairy-free hot chocolate to your easy Christmas dinner menu, or enjoy with Christmas waffles! Add all ingredients to the slow cooker, and let the gadget do the rest for you. (via Justina Huddleston for Brit + Co)

Champagne Ice Cream

This egg-free, celebration-worthy holiday dinner idea gets its creaminess from cream cheese and, better yet, its booziness from sparkling wine. (via Brit + Co)

Cinnamon Roll Pecan Pie

We call this pie holiday crack for a reason (or two): the pie crust is made of mini cinnamon rolls and the pecan filling is buttery on the verge of illegal, which definitely makes it one of our favorite holiday dishes. (via Brit + Co)

Easy Spiced Hot Fruit Bake

Hear that? That's a scoop of ice cream begging to top this sweet tray of apple, pear, cranberry, pineapple, and gluten-free dessert. (via Cotter Crunch)