Low Sodium Chick-fil-A Inspired Mac n Cheese
Reimagine comfort food with this Low Sodium Chick-fil-A Inspired Mac n Cheese, a lighter twist on the beloved creamy classic. Crafted with tender elbow macaroni coated in a velvety sauce made from shredded low-sodium cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, this dish delivers indulgent flavor without the excess sodium. A whisper of mustard powder, paprika, and black pepper brings a gentle kick to the rich, cheesy base, while unsalted butter and a roux made from all-purpose flour ensure a luscious, silky texture. Ready in just 40 minutes, including a quick bake for that signature golden topping, this recipe is perfect for those seeking a healthier, homecooked alternative to the original. It's comfort food redefined—savor every guilt-free bite!
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Ingredients
- 8 ounces Elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons All-purpose flour
- 2 cups 2% milk
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 2 cups Low sodium cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Low sodium mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Low sodium Parmesan cheese, grated
- 0.5 teaspoon Ground black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon Ground mustard powder
- 0.25 teaspoon Paprika
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of unsalted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2
In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to form a roux.
Step 3
Gradually whisk in the 2% milk and heavy cream, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 4
Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and smooth.
Step 5
Add the black pepper, mustard powder, and paprika to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine.
Step 6
Remove the sauce from the heat and pour over the drained macaroni. Stir gently to coat the pasta thoroughly.
Step 7
Transfer the mac n cheese to a lightly greased baking dish. Optionally, sprinkle a little extra cheddar cheese on top.
Step 8
Place the dish in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and bubbly.
Step 9
Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your low sodium mac n cheese!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1588.3g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 4530.3 |
| Total Fat 293.4g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 179.9g | 0% |
| Cholesterol 881.9mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1640.9mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 236.4g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 9.5g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 30.3g | |
| Protein 221.3g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 344.8IU | 0% |
| Calcium 5641.5mg | 0% |
| Iron 12.2mg | 0% |
| Potassium 546.9mg | 0% |
Source of Calories