Indulge guilt-free with this Low Fat Macaroni and Cheese with Sausage, a comforting, protein-packed twist on the classic favorite. Made with whole wheat macaroni, lean turkey sausage, and a velvety blend of low-fat sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, this dish offers all the creamy, savory goodness you crave without the excess calories. A touch of Dijon mustard and garlic powder elevates the flavor, while the simple roux-based cheese sauce keeps it smooth and luscious. Ready in just 45 minutes, this hearty, healthier rendition of mac 'n' cheese is perfect for weeknight dinners and pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad.
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter and melt it over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Gradually whisk in the low-fat milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and add the low-fat sharp cheddar cheese and low-fat mozzarella cheese to the milk mixture. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Combine well.
Add the cooked macaroni and turkey sausage to the cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta and sausage are evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
Serve immediately, garnishing with a sprinkle of additional black pepper or fresh herbs if desired.
Calories |
2618 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 102.2 g | 131% | |
| Saturated Fat | 43.3 g | 216% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 321 mg | 107% | |
| Sodium | 4342 mg | 189% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 264.4 g | 96% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 27.5 g | 98% | |
| Total Sugars | 33.7 g | ||
| Protein | 172.6 g | 345% | |
| Vitamin D | 6.1 mcg | 30% | |
| Calcium | 2102 mg | 162% | |
| Iron | 14.0 mg | 78% | |
| Potassium | 1694 mg | 36% | |
*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.