Low Sodium Macaroni and Cheese with Ham
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this *Low Sodium Macaroni and Cheese with Ham*, a lighter twist on the classic favorite. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a heart-healthy yet satisfying dish, thanks to its use of low-sodium ingredients like unsalted butter, low-sodium vegetable broth, and reduced-sodium cheddar cheese. Tender elbow macaroni is coated in an ultra-creamy cheese sauce infused with a hint of garlic, paprika, and dry mustard for a subtle depth of flavor, while diced unsalted cooked ham adds a protein boost. With a quick 15-minute prep time, it’s an ideal option for busy weeknights. Serve it as a wholesome main course or pair it with a crisp side salad for a well-rounded meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 8 oz Elbow macaroni
- 6 oz Unsalted cooked ham, diced
- 2 tbsp Unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp All-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups Low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup Low-fat milk
- 2 cups Low-sodium cheddar cheese, shredded
- 0.25 tsp Ground black pepper
- 0.25 tsp Garlic powder (optional)
- 0.5 tsp Dry mustard powder
- 0.5 tsp Paprika
Instructions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes until a roux forms, and it takes on a light golden color.
Slowly whisk in the low-sodium vegetable broth and low-fat milk until smooth. Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Reduce heat to low and whisk in the shredded low-sodium cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Stir in the ground black pepper, garlic powder, dry mustard powder, and paprika.
Add the drained macaroni and diced unsalted cooked ham to the cheese sauce, stirring until well combined and evenly coated with the sauce.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through.
Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with a sprinkle of additional paprika if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2431 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 115.1 g | 148% | |
| Saturated Fat | 68.5 g | 342% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 415 mg | 138% | |
| Sodium | 812 mg | 35% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 213.7 g | 78% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.4 g | 34% | |
| Total Sugars | 23.4 g | ||
| Protein | 134.5 g | 269% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.7 mcg | 19% | |
| Calcium | 1947 mg | 150% | |
| Iron | 11.2 mg | 62% | |
| Potassium | 965 mg | 21% | |
*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.
