Low Sodium Classic Macaroni Cheese

Indulge in the creamy comfort of Low Sodium Classic Macaroni Cheese, a heart-healthy twist on a beloved favorite. This recipe masterfully combines tender elbow macaroni with a velvety cheese sauce made from low-sodium cheddar, unsalted butter, and a rich blend of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth and low-fat milk. Perfectly seasoned with just a touch of black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder (optional), this dish delivers all the cheesy goodness you crave without the excess sodium. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s an easy dinner idea that serves four and is perfect for satisfying weeknight cravings. Sprinkle with paprika for a pop of color and serve it warm for a guilt-free, crowd-pleasing classic.

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 8 ounces Elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 2 cups Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup Low-fat milk
• 0.5 teaspoon Garlic powder (optional)
• 0.5 teaspoon Onion powder (optional)
• 2 cups Low-sodium cheddar cheese, shredded
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon Paprika (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the flour to form a smooth paste (roux) and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.

Step 3

Gradually whisk in the low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth and milk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4

Reduce heat to low and stir in the garlic powder and onion powder, if using. Add the shredded low-sodium cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5

Season with black pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust with additional low-sodium seasonings if necessary.

Step 6

Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until all the pasta is well coated.

Step 7

Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a serving dish. If desired, sprinkle with paprika for color.

Step 8

Serve immediately and enjoy your low sodium classic macaroni and cheese.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1217.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2190.1

Total Fat 106.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 65.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 321.2mg	0%
Sodium 805.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 209.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 9.3g	0%
Total Sugars 19.6g
Protein 100.6g	0%

Vitamin D 148.8IU	0%
Calcium 1940.7mg	0%
Iron 10.3mg	0%
Potassium 328.5mg	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: 43.6%

Protein: 18.3%

Carbs: 38.1%