Indulge in comfort food guilt-free with these convenient Low Fat Mac and Cheese Cups, perfect for portion control and a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Made with whole grain elbow macaroni, creamy fat-free milk, and low-fat shredded cheddar cheese, these bite-sized delights pack big flavor without the extra calories. The smooth cheese sauce is seasoned with paprika and black pepper for a subtle kick, while a sprinkle of Parmesan adds an irresistible golden crust. Baked in a muffin tin for easy serving, they're ideal for grab-and-go lunches, party appetizers, or weeknight dinners. Ready in under 40 minutes, these deliciously crispy mac and cheese cups will quickly become a family favorite.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the whole grain elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden, stirring constantly.
Gradually whisk in the fat-free milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue cooking, while stirring, until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, ground black pepper, and paprika until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with the cooking spray.
Spoon the mac and cheese mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup to the top.
Sprinkle the top of each cup with a bit of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy crust.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and crispy.
Let the mac and cheese cups cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Calories |
1459 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 37.9 g | 49% | |
| Saturated Fat | 20.5 g | 102% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 124 mg | 41% | |
| Sodium | 5325 mg | 232% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 161.4 g | 59% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.3 g | 69% | |
| Total Sugars | 21.8 g | ||
| Protein | 97.8 g | 196% | |
| Vitamin D | 4.1 mcg | 20% | |
| Calcium | 1976 mg | 152% | |
| Iron | 7.3 mg | 41% | |
| Potassium | 1307 mg | 28% | |
*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.