Heart-Healthy Fried Mac and Cheese Balls
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food makeover with these **Heart-Healthy Fried Mac and Cheese Balls**—a guilt-free twist on a classic favorite. Made with wholesome ingredients like whole grain elbow macaroni, low-fat cheeses, and Greek yogurt, this recipe dials down the fat without compromising on rich, cheesy flavor. The golden, crispy coating made from whole wheat breadcrumbs adds the perfect crunch, while a touch of olive oil keeps the dish lighter than traditional fried fare. Baked to perfection and seasoned with garlic, paprika, and onion powder, these mac and cheese balls are satisfying, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. Perfect as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, kid-friendly snack, or side dish, they’re a delicious way to treat yourself while staying heart-smart.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole grain elbow macaroni
- 1.5 cups low-fat sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 0.5 cup low-fat mozzarella cheese, grated
- 0.5 cup low-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 2 large egg whites
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Cook the whole grain elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, low-fat sharp cheddar cheese, and low-fat mozzarella cheese.
Stir in the low-fat plain Greek yogurt until the cheese starts to melt and forms a creamy sauce.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt to the mixture. Stir until well combined.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until lightly frothy. In another dish, spread the whole wheat breadcrumbs.
Using your hands, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mac and cheese mixture and form it into a ball.
Dip each mac and cheese ball into the egg whites, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll in the breadcrumbs until completely coated.
Place the coated mac and cheese balls on the prepared baking sheet.
Lightly spray or brush the mac and cheese balls with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your heart-healthy fried mac and cheese balls!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2289 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 66.7 g | 86% | |
| Saturated Fat | 23.3 g | 116% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 102 mg | 34% | |
| Sodium | 3736 mg | 162% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 265.5 g | 97% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 37.5 g | 134% | |
| Total Sugars | 15.1 g | ||
| Protein | 134.6 g | 269% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.9 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 1926 mg | 148% | |
| Iron | 15.1 mg | 84% | |
| Potassium | 1450 mg | 31% | |
*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.
