Craving creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese but watching your calorie intake? You're in luck! This recipe delivers all the cheesy goodness you love without the guilt. It's a lighter take on a classic comfort food, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal. Get ready to enjoy a delicious and healthy macaroni and cheese that won't derail your healthy eating goals. This recipe is packed with flavor and surprisingly easy to make, proving that healthy eating doesn't have to mean sacrificing taste!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound whole wheat elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups skim milk
- 1 cup low-fat shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup low-fat shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the whole wheat macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Using whole wheat pasta adds fiber, making this dish more filling and nutritious.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds depth of flavor to your macaroni and cheese.
Step 3: Create the Cheese Sauce
Pour the skim milk into the saucepan and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and nutritional yeast. Stir constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Nutritional yeast is a fantastic secret ingredient that boosts the cheesy flavor without adding extra calories or fat.
Step 4: Combine and Season
Stir in the cooked macaroni, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is heated through and the sauce is well combined.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for the Best Low-Calorie Mac and Cheese:
- Use low-fat milk: Skim milk significantly reduces the fat and calorie content compared to whole milk or cream.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Overcooked pasta can become mushy. Cook it al dente for the best texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Add more salt and pepper to your liking.
- Add vegetables: Sneak in extra nutrients by adding some steamed broccoli florets or chopped spinach to the sauce.
Variations:
- Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a kick.
- Gourmet Mac and Cheese: Experiment with different types of low-fat cheese, such as Gruyère or Fontina.
- Veggie Mac and Cheese: Roast your favorite vegetables like butternut squash or bell peppers and add them to the macaroni before mixing with the cheese sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields about 6 servings. Nutritional values will vary slightly based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 8-10g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This low-calorie macaroni and cheese recipe is a delicious and healthy alternative to the classic version. It's a perfect example of how you can enjoy your favorite comfort foods while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Enjoy!