Low Sodium Classic Baked Mac & Cheese

Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting, this Low Sodium Classic Baked Mac & Cheese is proof that a lighter twist on a timeless favorite can still pack in all the flavor. Featuring a velvety homemade cheese sauce made with shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella, this recipe swaps traditional saltier bases for low-sodium chicken broth and unsalted butter, making it a heart-healthy choice without compromising on taste. Al dente elbow macaroni is coated in the rich, cheesy goodness and topped with a crisp, herb-infused breadcrumb crust for the perfect balance of textures. Ready in just under an hour, this family-friendly dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or as a standout side at your next gathering. Serve warm and enjoy a comforting classic, reinvented with your wellness in mind!

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 8 ounces Elbow macaroni
• 3 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 2 cups Low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup Whole milk
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground mustard
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon Nutmeg
• 8 ounces Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 4 ounces Shredded mozzarella cheese
• 0.5 cup Bread crumbs
• 0.25 teaspoon Paprika
• 2 tablespoons Chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).

Step 2

Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.

Step 4

Add the flour to the melted butter, whisking constantly, and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is lightly golden.

Step 5

Gradually whisk in the low-sodium chicken broth and whole milk, stirring continuously until the mixture begins to thicken and bubble.

Step 6

Reduce the heat to low and add the ground mustard, black pepper, and nutmeg.

Step 7

Slowly stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese, a handful at a time, until completely melted and smooth.

Step 8

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.

Step 9

Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased 2-quart baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 10

In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs with paprika and chopped parsley, then sprinkle the mixture over the mac and cheese.

Step 11

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 12

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your low sodium classic baked mac and cheese!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1431.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2941.0

Total Fat 149.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 89.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.3g
Cholesterol 445.9mg	0%
Sodium 2875.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 258.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 12.4g	0%
Total Sugars 26.5g
Protein 140.1g	0%

Vitamin D 107.4IU	0%
Calcium 2895.2mg	0%
Iron 13.6mg	0%
Potassium 711.4mg	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: 45.8%

Protein: 19.1%

Carbs: 35.1%