Heart-Healthy Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Savor the ultimate comfort food with a heart-healthy twist in this Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe. Made with whole-grain elbow macaroni, reduced-fat sharp cheddar, and a luscious blend of skim milk and low-sodium chicken broth, this guilt-free version delivers creamy, cheesy satisfaction without compromising on flavor. A crispy topping of whole wheat breadcrumbs and fresh parsley adds a perfect golden crunch, elevating this beloved dish to a new level of wholesome delight. Ready in under an hour, this make-ahead meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. Indulge in a nutritious, flavorful spin on a family favorite while keeping your heart health in mind!

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 8 ounces whole-grain elbow macaroni
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups skim milk
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1.5 cups sharp reduced-fat cheddar cheese, shredded
• 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon paprika
• 0.5 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 0.25 teaspoon salt

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a medium-sized baking dish with a light coat of olive oil or cooking spray.

Step 2

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the whole-grain elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the flour, whisking continuously for 1-2 minutes, until well blended and slightly golden.

Step 4

Slowly whisk in the skim milk and then the low-sodium chicken broth. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.

Step 5

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded sharp reduced-fat cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 6

Stir in the Dijon mustard, ground black pepper, paprika, and salt until evenly combined.

Step 7

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat all the pasta evenly.

Step 8

Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 9

In a small bowl, combine the whole wheat breadcrumbs and chopped fresh parsley. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.

Step 10

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp.

Step 11

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your heart-healthy classic baked macaroni and cheese!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1247.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1952.6

Total Fat 60.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 26.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.4g
Cholesterol 124.6mg	0%
Sodium 2932.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 251.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 20.8g	0%
Total Sugars 32.4g
Protein 112.0g	0%

Vitamin D 250.7IU	0%
Calcium 2175.5mg	0%
Iron 12.1mg	0%
Potassium 1662.5mg	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: 27.4%

Protein: 22.4%

Carbs: 50.3%