Heart-Healthy Classic Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food without the guilt with this Heart-Healthy Classic Creamy Macaroni and Cheese recipe! Made with wholesome ingredients like whole grain macaroni, low-fat cheddar cheese, and unsweetened almond milk, this lighter take on the timeless favorite is both delicious and nutritious. A velvety sauce thickened with a simple olive oil and whole wheat flour roux is elevated with a dash of Dijon mustard, garlic, and onion powder for a rich depth of flavor. Greek yogurt adds an extra creamy touch while keeping the recipe low in unhealthy fats. Ready in just 40 minutes, this heart-smart dish is perfect as a satisfying main course or a comforting side that the whole family will love. Treat your taste buds to this guilt-free macaroni and cheese that’s packed with flavor and designed with your health in mind!
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Ingredients
- 12 oz whole grain macaroni
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp whole wheat flour
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1.5 cups low-fat cheddar cheese
- 1 cup low-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp onion powder
- 0.25 tsp ground black pepper
- 0.25 tsp salt
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt, if desired, and cook the whole grain macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil and allow it to warm up slightly.
Step 3
Sprinkle the whole wheat flour over the warmed olive oil, whisking continuously for about 1 minute to form a smooth paste. This step creates a roux to thicken the sauce.
Step 4
Gradually whisk in the unsweetened almond milk, ensuring there are no lumps, and cook for approximately 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Step 5
Reduce the heat to low and add in the low-fat cheddar cheese a little at a time, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 6
Stir in the low-fat Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt until all the ingredients are well combined and the sauce is creamy.
Step 7
Add the cooked macaroni back into the pot, mix well to ensure all pasta is coated with the sauce.
Step 8
Continue to cook over low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes until the macaroni is heated through.
Step 9
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
Step 10
Serve immediately as a main course or side dish, and enjoy a heart-healthy version of the classic creamy macaroni and cheese!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1294.0g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2137.4 |
| Total Fat 62.3g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 17.8g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 4.3g | |
| Cholesterol 89.4mg | 0% |
| Sodium 2155.0mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 303.7g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 29.0g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 34.4g | |
| Protein 111.7g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 263.9IU | 0% |
| Calcium 2366.8mg | 0% |
| Iron 15.0mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1597.9mg | 0% |
Source of Calories