Slimmed Down Macaroni and Cheese
Indulge in a comforting classic without the guilt with this Slimmed Down Macaroni and Cheese! Made with whole wheat elbow macaroni and a rich, velvety sauce featuring low-fat shredded cheddar, creamy Greek yogurt, and a touch of Dijon mustard, this recipe delivers all the cheesy, savory goodness you crave in a healthier package. A lightened-up roux thickened with 2% or skim milk ensures a luscious texture while garlic and onion powders enhance the flavor. For an optional finishing touch, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top and broil until golden for added crunch. Ready in just 30 minutes, this wholesome twist on mac and cheese is perfect for busy weeknights and serves up to four. Try this nutritious, crowd-pleasing comfort food today!
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 8 ounces whole wheat elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups low-fat milk (2% or skim)
- 1.5 cups low-fat shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 cup Greek yogurt (plain, non-fat)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the whole wheat elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, melt the unsalted butter in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat.
Whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste.
Gradually whisk in the low-fat milk, starting with a few tablespoons at a time and then adding the rest slowly. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded low-fat cheddar cheese, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir well to coat evenly.
If desired, transfer the macaroni and cheese to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top, and broil on high for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy.
Serve immediately and enjoy your Slimmed Down Macaroni and Cheese!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1768 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 37.3 g | 48% | |
| Saturated Fat | 19.0 g | 95% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 110 mg | 37% | |
| Sodium | 4109 mg | 179% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 226.8 g | 82% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.3 g | 55% | |
| Total Sugars | 28.4 g | ||
| Protein | 116.1 g | 232% | |
| Vitamin D | 4.5 mcg | 22% | |
| Calcium | 1828 mg | 141% | |
| Iron | 10.1 mg | 56% | |
| Potassium | 1560 mg | 33% | |
*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.
