Heart-Healthy Macaroni and Cheese with Ground Beef and Corn
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with a healthier twist by trying this Heart-Healthy Macaroni and Cheese with Ground Beef and Corn. This lighter take on a classic favorite combines tender whole wheat macaroni, lean ground beef, and sweet bursts of frozen corn in a velvety sauce made with reduced-fat cheddar cheese and non-fat Greek yogurt. Flavored with aromatic garlic, sautéed onions, and a touch of paprika, this dish balances indulgence and nutrition perfectly. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s an easy, wholesome one-skillet meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Garnished with fresh parsley, this protein-packed recipe is a delicious, family-friendly option that keeps heart health in mind without skimping on flavor.
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Ingredients
- 12 ounces Whole wheat macaroni
- 8 ounces Lean ground beef (90% lean)
- 1 cup Frozen corn kernels
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Low-sodium chicken broth
- 1.5 cups Reduced-fat cheddar cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cup Non-fat Greek yogurt
- 0.5 teaspoon Paprika
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
Step 1
Cook the whole wheat macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon. Remove beef from skillet and set aside.
Step 3
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Step 4
Add the low-sodium chicken broth and frozen corn to the skillet. Stir to combine and allow to simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 5
Lower the heat and add the reduced-fat cheddar cheese and non-fat Greek yogurt to the skillet. Stir constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Step 6
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet along with the drained macaroni. Add paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything until well combined and heated through.
Step 7
Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1452.4g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2667.1 |
| Total Fat 93.0g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 34.2g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g | |
| Cholesterol 263.6mg | 0% |
| Sodium 2583.1mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 313.0g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 38.6g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 34.8g | |
| Protein 158.4g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 36IU | 0% |
| Calcium 1534.7mg | 0% |
| Iron 19.6mg | 0% |
| Potassium 2842.1mg | 0% |
Source of Calories