Low Sodium White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

Indulge in creamy comfort with this Low Sodium White Cheddar Mac and Cheese, a healthier twist on the classic favorite that doesn't compromise on flavor. This recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with a velvety, reduced-sodium white cheddar cheese sauce, subtly seasoned with garlic, onion, and mustard powders for a sophisticated depth of flavor. The secret to its rich yet guilt-free appeal lies in the use of unsalted butter, low sodium chicken or vegetable broth, and whole milk, ensuring every bite is deliciously balanced and diet-friendly. For added texture, an optional golden breadcrumb topping brings a delightful crunch. Ready in just 30 minutes, this irresistible mac and cheese is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side dish. Say goodbye to bland low-sodium meals and hello to this creamy, flavorful masterpiece!

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 8 ounces Elbow macaroni (or small pasta of choice)
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 1 cup Low sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
• 1 cup Whole milk
• 2 cups White cheddar cheese (shredded, reduced sodium if available)
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground mustard powder
• 0.25 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 0.25 teaspoon Onion powder
• 0.25 teaspoon Pepper (freshly ground)
• 0.25 cup Plain breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 1 teaspoon Olive oil (optional, for toasting breadcrumbs)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions. Omit any salt. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until slightly golden, stirring constantly to make a roux.

Step 3

Slowly whisk in the low sodium chicken broth and whole milk until smooth. Continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the mixture thickens (about 3–4 minutes).

Step 4

Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded white cheddar cheese a little at a time, stirring until melted and smooth.

Step 5

Stir in the ground mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and freshly ground pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired but avoid adding salt to keep the dish low sodium.

Step 6

Gently fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring all the pasta is evenly coated.

Step 7

For an optional breadcrumb topping, toast breadcrumbs in a small pan with olive oil over medium heat (about 2–3 minutes) until golden brown. Sprinkle over the mac and cheese before serving.

Step 8

Serve warm and enjoy your delicious low sodium white cheddar mac and cheese!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1013.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2295.2

Total Fat 113.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 68.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.3g
Cholesterol 291.3mg	0%
Sodium 1651.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 224.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 9.3g	0%
Total Sugars 20.0g
Protein 101.4g	0%

Vitamin D 155.4IU	0%
Calcium 1988.9mg	0%
Iron 5.8mg	0%
Potassium 939.0mg	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: 44.0%

Protein: 17.4%

Carbs: 38.6%