Healthy Mac And Cheese Recipe

Ever had one of those days when you need the comfort of mac and cheese but without the post-cheesy guilt trip? Let me tell you how this wholesome twist on the classic dish, filled with whole wheat macaroni and a creamy blend of low-fat cheeses, has become my go-to for cozy nights in.

I love to take old-time comfort food and give it a healthy, new twist. My mac and cheese is not only classic but also replete with all sorts of wholesome and nutritious elements.

The macaroni is whole wheat; there’s fiber in the elbow part. The creamy sauce is low fat (71 percent of the fat in this cheese sauce is the good stuff), and good ol’ cheddar is the star.

Can you believe there’s (kinda) mustard in mac and cheese? Oh, yes!

This is a delicious and satisfying dish!

Healthy Mac And Cheese Recipe Ingredients

• Whole wheat macaroni: Packed with fiber, adds whole-grain benefits.
• Olive oil: Heart-healthy fats, enhances flavor with richness.
• Onion: Adds depth, contains antioxidants and vitamins.
• Garlic: Boosts flavor, offers anti-inflammatory properties.
• Low-fat milk: Creamy texture, provides protein and calcium.
• Dijon mustard: Tangy taste, low in calories, adds zest.
• Low-fat cheddar cheese: Creaminess, good source of calcium and protein.
• Broccoli florets: Optional fiber and vitamin C source, adds color.

Healthy Mac And Cheese Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 8 ounces whole wheat macaroni
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups low-fat milk
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 1/2 cups shredded low-fat cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup steamed broccoli florets (optional)

How to Make this Healthy Mac And Cheese Recipe

1. Prepare the whole wheat macaroni following the directions on the package and cooking until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a big saucepan, heat the olive oil on medium. Put in the onion, chopped fine, and cook it until it’s translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Minced garlic should be added to the saucepan, and then sautéed for another minute until it’s really fragrant.

4. Dredge the onions and garlic in flour, then cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute. The goal is to combine them with the flour so that the flour is not clumpy and does not taste raw.

5. Slowly incorporate the low-fat milk, taking care to eliminate any lumps. Cook the resultant mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens just a bit, which should take between 3 to 5 minutes.

6. Into the sauce, stir Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika, and mix until they are fully incorporated.

7. Lower the heat to low and slowly incorporate the shredded low-fat cheddar cheese, stirring continually until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce appears smooth.

8. Incorporate the shredded Parmesan into the sauce, mixing until it has melted and is dispersed throughout the sauce.

9. Ensure the pasta is well coated by stirring the macaroni, which has been cooked, into the cheese sauce.

10. If you are using it, fold in the steamed broccoli florets with just enough energy to evenly distribute them throughout the dish; then serve the healthy mac and cheese warm.

Healthy Mac And Cheese Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large pot
2. Colander
3. Big saucepan
4. Cooking spoon or spatula
5. Measuring spoons
6. Measuring cups
7. Chef’s knife
8. Cutting board

FAQ

• Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?A: Indeed, you may replace the whole wheat macaroni with any gluten-free pasta of your liking, and it will still taste great.
• Q: Can I make this recipe lactose-free?A: Yes, indeed! Opt for milk devoid of lactose, and in lieu of cheese, use lactose-free varieties that cater to your specific diet.
• Q: How can I make this dish more nutritious?A: Increasing the number of vegetables, such as spinach, peas, or kale, to join broccoli can amplify the nutrient power.
• Q: Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?A: Yes, you can make the cheese sauce and the pasta ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and just reheat and combine them before serving.
• Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?A: Naturally! You may experiment with a variety of cheeses, perhaps Gouda or Swiss, to alter the flavor profile.
• Q: How can I make the sauce creamier without adding more cheese?A: To achieve a creamy texture in the sauce without using any added cheese, blend a small amount of cooked cauliflower into the sauce.

Healthy Mac And Cheese Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Gluten-free pasta can be substituted in whole wheat macaroni for a pasta dish that is gluten-free.
Avocado oil or canola oil: Use these in place of olive oil.
All-purpose flour: Substitute for whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
Low-fat milk: Replace with unsweetened almond milk or oat milk for a non-dairy version.
Cheddar cheese with low fat: Substitute reduced-fat mozzarella or use nutritional yeast for a vegan option.

Pro Tips

1. Toast the Flour Before adding the milk, ensure the flour is toasted properly with the onions and garlic. This step removes the raw taste of flour and adds a nutty flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the sauce.

2. Gradual Milk Addition When you add the milk to the flour mixture, do it slowly and whisk continuously. This helps create a smoother sauce and prevents lumps from forming.

3. Cheese Freshness For the best flavor and melting quality, use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded versions. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect how well it melts.

4. Broccoli Integration If including broccoli, try blanching it briefly before steaming to retain its vibrant green color and add a touch of seasoning to enhance its flavor.

5. Flavor Adjustments After mixing the sauce with the pasta, taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. A bit more salt, pepper, or even a dash more smoked paprika can make the flavors pop.