Creamy Light Macaroni and Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Light Macaroni and Cheese that balances rich, cheesy flavor with a lighter twist. Made with tender elbow macaroni, a velvety sauce of low-fat milk, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan, and a subtle blend of spices including garlic powder and paprika, this recipe offers a satisfying meal without the guilt. For a golden, crispy finish, an optional panko breadcrumb topping elevates the dish to dinner-party-worthy status. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this easy, family-friendly recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Serve it as a main course or a side dish, and enjoy the perfect blend of creamy decadence and wholesome simplicity.

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 8 ounces Elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 2 cups Low-fat milk
• 1.5 cups Low-fat shredded cheddar cheese
• 0.25 cups Parmesan cheese, grated
• 0.5 teaspoons Salt
• 0.25 teaspoons Ground black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoons Garlic powder
• 0.25 teaspoons Paprika
• 0.5 cups Panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 1 teaspoons Olive oil (optional, for toasting breadcrumbs)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 3

Slowly pour in the low-fat milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 4

Lower the heat to medium-low and add the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5

Season the sauce with salt, ground black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 6

Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, making sure all noodles are evenly coated.

Step 7

If adding a breadcrumb topping, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil, spread them over the macaroni and cheese in an oven-safe dish, and bake for 10 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 8

Serve the macaroni and cheese hot, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika or additional shredded cheese, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1003.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2213.5

Total Fat 65.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 33.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 180.4mg	0%
Sodium 4565.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 258.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 10.9g	0%
Total Sugars 32.2g
Protein 118.4g	0%

Vitamin D 201.6IU	0%
Calcium 2053.1mg	0%
Iron 10.7mg	0%
Potassium 288.8mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 28.1%

Protein: 22.6%

Carbs: 49.3%