Heart-Healthy Macaroni and Cheese with Sausage
Indulge in a flavorful twist on a beloved classic with this Heart-Healthy Macaroni and Cheese with Sausage recipe. Featuring wholesome whole-grain elbow macaroni and a velvety cheese sauce made with reduced-fat sharp cheddar, low-sodium chicken broth, and low-fat milk, this dish delivers comfort without compromising on nutrition. The addition of smoked turkey sausage adds a savory depth, while baby spinach boosts the dish with a burst of vitamins and vibrant color. Enhanced with aromatic onions, garlic, and a hint of Dijon mustard and paprika, this lighter mac and cheese perfectly balances indulgence and health. Ready in just 40 minutes, it's a quick, satisfying meal ideal for busy weeknights. Serve it hot for a protein-packed, nutrient-rich comfort food your whole family will love!
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Ingredients
- 8 ounces whole-grain elbow macaroni
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- 1.5 cups reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces smoked turkey sausage, sliced
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 2 tablespoons whole wheat flour
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the whole-grain elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2
In a large sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic; cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step 3
Add the sliced turkey sausage to the pan, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted. Remove mixture from the pan and set aside.
Step 4
In the same pan, over medium heat, sprinkle whole wheat flour and cook, stirring constantly for 1 minute.
Step 5
Slowly add low-sodium chicken broth and low-fat milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 6
Add shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, paprika, black pepper, and salt to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 7
Combine the cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and cheese sauce, blending well to coat evenly.
Step 8
Serve hot and enjoy your heart-healthy macaroni and cheese with sausage!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1553.0g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2098.1 |
| Total Fat 92.7g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 35.5g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 1.3g | |
| Cholesterol 230.7mg | 0% |
| Sodium 4839.7mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 217.2g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 19.8g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 22.2g | |
| Protein 119.0g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 136.8IU | 0% |
| Calcium 1691.5mg | 0% |
| Iron 12.5mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1478.9mg | 0% |
Source of Calories