Heart-Healthy Macaroni and Cheese with Ground Beef and Corn
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with a wholesome twist in this Heart-Healthy Macaroni and Cheese with Ground Beef and Corn. This protein-packed dish combines the creamy indulgence of reduced-fat cheddar and non-fat Greek yogurt with the robust flavors of lean ground beef, sweet corn, and a hint of paprika for added depth. Whole wheat macaroni provides a fiber-rich base, while sautéed onions and garlic elevate the dish with aromatic goodness. Simmered in low-sodium chicken broth for a luscious, savory sauce, this recipe offers a lighter, guilt-free take on a family classic. Ready in just 45 minutes and packed with nutrients, it’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners. Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish is as vibrant as it is delicious—comfort food made better!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces Whole wheat macaroni
- 8 ounces Lean ground beef (90% lean)
- 1 cup Frozen corn kernels
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Low-sodium chicken broth
- 1.5 cups Reduced-fat cheddar cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cup Non-fat Greek yogurt
- 0.5 teaspoon Paprika
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Cook the whole wheat macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon. Remove beef from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Add the low-sodium chicken broth and frozen corn to the skillet. Stir to combine and allow to simmer for 5 minutes.
Lower the heat and add the reduced-fat cheddar cheese and non-fat Greek yogurt to the skillet. Stir constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet along with the drained macaroni. Add paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything until well combined and heated through.
Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2667 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 93.0 g | 119% | |
| Saturated Fat | 34.2 g | 171% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 264 mg | 88% | |
| Sodium | 2583 mg | 112% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 313.0 g | 114% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 38.6 g | 138% | |
| Total Sugars | 34.8 g | ||
| Protein | 158.4 g | 317% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.9 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 1535 mg | 118% | |
| Iron | 19.6 mg | 109% | |
| Potassium | 2842 mg | 60% | |
*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.
