Heart-Healthy Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese

Indulge in comfort without compromise with this **Heart-Healthy Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese**, a lighter twist on the classic favorite. Made with wholesome whole wheat elbow macaroni and a velvety cheese sauce crafted from reduced-fat sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and a touch of Dijon mustard, this recipe delivers creamy, satisfying flavor in every bite. The base is enriched with olive oil, skim milk, and low-sodium vegetable broth, striking the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. With a golden, bubbly finish under the broiler and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a bright, herbaceous touch, this dish is ideal for a family dinner or a weeknight treat. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s a heart-healthy mac and cheese that doesn’t skimp on flavor or comfort.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 8 oz Whole wheat elbow macaroni
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 2 tbsp Whole wheat flour
• 1 cup Low sodium vegetable broth
• 1 cup Skim milk
• 1.5 cups Sharp cheddar cheese, reduced fat, shredded
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 0.5 tsp Garlic powder
• 0.5 tsp Onion powder
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 0.25 tsp Ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Step 1

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

Step 2

In a large saucepan over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Sprinkle in the whole wheat flour, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes to remove the floury taste.

Step 3

Gradually whisk in the low sodium vegetable broth and skim milk, ensuring the mixture remains smooth. Bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, until the sauce begins to thicken.

Step 4

Reduce heat to low and stir in the sharp cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 5

Add the garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, and ground black pepper to the cheese sauce. Stir well to combine all flavors.

Step 6

Remove the saucepan from heat and gently fold in the cooked macaroni until evenly coated with the cheese sauce.

Step 7

Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a lightly greased baking dish and place it under a preheated broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 8

Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(977.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1857.9

Total Fat 82.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 34.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 137.3mg	0%
Sodium 2134.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 202.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 16.2g	0%
Total Sugars 18.1g
Protein 101.8g	0%

Vitamin D 143.4IU	0%
Calcium 2049.9mg	0%
Iron 9.9mg	0%
Potassium 1457.2mg	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: 37.8%

Protein: 20.8%

Carbs: 41.4%