Low Sodium Macaroni and Cheese with Sausage
Indulge in comfort food without the guilt with this Low Sodium Macaroni and Cheese with Sausage recipe! Made with wholesome ingredients like whole wheat elbow macaroni, low sodium cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, and flavorful chicken sausage, this dish is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to skimp on flavor. A creamy, roux-based cheese sauce infused with a hint of garlic powder, nutmeg, and black pepper brings richness to every bite while keeping sodium levels in check. The golden, bubbly baked finish adds the perfect touch to this hearty casserole-style meal. Ready in just 45 minutes, this dish is ideal for a family dinner or a satisfying meal prep option. Perfectly balanced and packed with flavor, it’s a delicious way to enjoy classic macaroni and cheese with a lighter, heart-healthier twist!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 8 ounces Whole wheat elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Low sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup Skim milk
- 2 cups Low sodium cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Low sodium mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 0.5 teaspoon Ground black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoon Nutmeg
- 8 ounces Low sodium chicken sausage, sliced
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
Instructions
Boil a large pot of water and cook the whole wheat macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux.
Slowly add the low sodium chicken broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add the skim milk and continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and add the low sodium cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring constantly until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
Season the cheese sauce with ground black pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Combine the cooked macaroni, browned sausage, and cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl. Stir well to ensure the macaroni is thoroughly coated with the cheese sauce and evenly distributed with the sausage slices.
Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a lightly greased baking dish. (Optional: Top with additional shredded cheese or breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.)
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade low sodium macaroni and cheese with sausage!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2879 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 157.8 g | 202% | |
| Saturated Fat | 84.5 g | 422% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 549 mg | 183% | |
| Sodium | 2493 mg | 108% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 212.6 g | 77% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.6 g | 52% | |
| Total Sugars | 20.7 g | ||
| Protein | 172.8 g | 346% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.9 mcg | 19% | |
| Calcium | 2876 mg | 221% | |
| Iron | 14.3 mg | 79% | |
| Potassium | 2208 mg | 47% | |
*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.
