Heart-Healthy Macaroni and Cheese with Sausage
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this **Heart-Healthy Macaroni and Cheese with Sausage**, a guilt-free twist on a classic favorite. Made with whole-grain elbow macaroni, low-fat milk, and reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese, this creamy dish is lightened up while still packing a punch of cheesy satisfaction. Sautéed turkey sausage, tender baby spinach, and caramelized onions add layers of smoky, savory goodness, while a touch of Dijon mustard and paprika elevate the flavor profile. This easy-to-make recipe is ready in just 40 minutes and is perfect for a family-friendly meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. With its high protein content and heart-smart ingredients, this mac and cheese is proof that comfort food and healthy eating can go hand-in-hand!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 8 ounces whole-grain elbow macaroni
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- 1.5 cups reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces smoked turkey sausage, sliced
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 2 tablespoons whole wheat flour
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the whole-grain elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic; cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the sliced turkey sausage to the pan, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted. Remove mixture from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, over medium heat, sprinkle whole wheat flour and cook, stirring constantly for 1 minute.
Slowly add low-sodium chicken broth and low-fat milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Add shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, paprika, black pepper, and salt to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine the cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and cheese sauce, blending well to coat evenly.
Serve hot and enjoy your heart-healthy macaroni and cheese with sausage!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2098 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 92.7 g | 119% | |
| Saturated Fat | 35.5 g | 178% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 231 mg | 77% | |
| Sodium | 4840 mg | 210% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 217.2 g | 79% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.8 g | 71% | |
| Total Sugars | 22.2 g | ||
| Protein | 119.0 g | 238% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.4 mcg | 17% | |
| Calcium | 1692 mg | 130% | |
| Iron | 12.5 mg | 69% | |
| Potassium | 1479 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.
