Healthy Mac Cheese with Bechamel Cheddar Sauce
Indulge in the creamy comfort of Healthy Mac Cheese with Béchamel Cheddar Sauce, a guilt-free twist on a classic favorite. This wholesome recipe features hearty whole-grain elbow macaroni coated in a velvety sauce crafted from low-fat milk, sharp cheddar cheese, and a touch of Dijon mustard for a tangy kick. A base of vegetable broth and a hint of garlic powder and paprika elevate the flavor, while an optional layer of golden, crispy panko breadcrumbs adds a delightful crunch. For added nutrition, stir in fresh baby spinach for a pop of color and nutrients. Ready in just 40 minutes, this healthier mac and cheese delivers all the richness you crave without compromise—perfect for a family dinner or meal prep!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 8 ounces Whole-grain elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Low-fat milk (2%)
- 1 cup Low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 0.5 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoon Paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.25 teaspoon Ground black pepper
- 2 cups Baby spinach (optional)
- 0.5 cup Panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 1 spray Olive oil spray (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Cook the whole-grain elbow macaroni in a pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour to form a paste.
Slowly pour in the low-fat milk and low-sodium vegetable broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low. Gradually whisk in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
Optional: If using baby spinach, stir it into the cheese sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.
Optional: If adding a breadcrumb topping, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs over the top and lightly spray with olive oil. Broil for 2-3 minutes until golden and crisp.
Serve warm and enjoy your Healthy Mac Cheese!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2596 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 128.4 g | 165% | |
| Saturated Fat | 76.5 g | 382% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 373 mg | 124% | |
| Sodium | 3590 mg | 156% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 270.2 g | 98% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.5 g | 70% | |
| Total Sugars | 32.1 g | ||
| Protein | 111.8 g | 224% | |
| Vitamin D | 7.2 mcg | 36% | |
| Calcium | 2400 mg | 185% | |
| Iron | 14.3 mg | 79% | |
| Potassium | 2420 mg | 51% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
