Good For You Macaroni and Cheese

Health score
4%
Good For You Macaroni and Cheese
90 min.
15
302kcal

Suggestions

This macaroni and cheese recipe is a healthier take on a classic comfort food. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that doesn't compromise on flavor or texture. The secret to this recipe's success lies in its unique combination of ingredients, which come together to create a creamy, cheesy masterpiece.

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the cheese. A blend of sharp yellow and extra-sharp white cheddar adds a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. The addition of pureed garbanzo beans and sweet potatoes gives the dish a creamy texture and a subtle sweetness that complements the cheese perfectly. This recipe also includes a generous amount of spices, adding a subtle kick that takes the flavor to the next level.

What sets this recipe apart is its attention to detail. The pasta is cooked to perfection, resulting in a firm bite that holds up to the rich sauce. The breadcrumb and Parmesan topping adds a delightful crunch, creating a satisfying contrast in textures. The end result is a dish that is both comforting and indulgent, yet surprisingly nutritious.

Whether you're looking for a satisfying weeknight meal or a show-stopping side dish for your next gathering, this Good For You Macaroni and Cheese is sure to impress. With its blend of creamy cheese, subtle spices, and unique ingredients, it's a dish that will leave you craving more. So why wait? Indulge in a healthier take on a classic favorite and treat yourself to this delicious macaroni and cheese!

Ingredients

  • tablespoons butter 
  • 0.5 cup garbanzo beans canned rinsed drained
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs dry
  • 16 ounce elbow macaroni 
  • 12 fluid ounce evaporated milk canned
  • tablespoons flour all-purpose
  • pinch nutmeg to taste
  • 0.3 cup parmesan cheese grated
  • pinch pepper red to taste
  • 15 servings salt and pepper to taste
  • cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded yellow divided
  • cup cream sour
  • cup sweet potatoes and into mashed
  • 0.5 cup water 
  • 0.5 cup cheddar cheese shredded white extra-sharp divided

Equipment

  • bowl
  • sauce pan
  • oven
  • whisk
  • pot
  • blender
  • baking pan
  • colander

Directions

  1. Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, stir in the macaroni, and return to a boil. Cook the pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta has cooked through, but is still very firm to the bite, about 5 minutes.
  2. Drain well in a colander set in the sink, and rinse with cold water until cold; set aside.
  3. Meanwhile, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat.
  4. Whisk in the flour, and stir until the mixture becomes paste-like and light golden brown, about 5 minutes. Gradually whisk the evaporated milk and water into the flour mixture, and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Season to taste with red pepper flakes, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook and stir until the mixture is thick and smooth, 10 to 15 minutes.
  5. Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  6. Place the garbanzo beans into a blender. Cover, and puree until smooth. Scrape the puree into a small bowl and stir in the bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese; set aside.
  7. Once the sauce has thickened, whisk in the sweet potatoes and sour cream; return to a simmer.
  8. Whisk in half of the yellow and white Cheddar cheeses until melted. Stir in the macaroni until well coated with the sauce, then pour half into the prepared baking dish.
  9. Sprinkle the remaining Cheddar cheeses overtop, then cover with the remaining macaroni. Smooth the top, then dot with the garbanzo bean mixture and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
  10. Bake in the preheated oven until the sauce is bubbly, and the top is golden brown, 30 to 40 minutes. Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Calories302kcal
Protein15.67%
Fat41.58%
Carbs42.75%

Properties

Glycemic Index
23.16
Glycemic Load
1.77
Inflammation Score
-8
Nutrition Score
10.244782608696%

Nutrients percent of daily need

Calories:302.39kcal
15.12%
Fat:13.94g
21.45%
Saturated Fat:7.63g
47.67%
Carbohydrates:32.24g
10.75%
Net Carbohydrates:30.56g
11.11%
Sugar:4.39g
4.87%
Cholesterol:40.2mg
13.4%
Sodium:436.73mg
18.99%
Protein:11.82g
23.65%
Selenium:27.57µg
39.38%
Vitamin A:1662.62IU
33.25%
Calcium:243.72mg
24.37%
Phosphorus:229.82mg
22.98%
Manganese:0.39mg
19.69%
Vitamin B2:0.23mg
13.76%
Zinc:1.55mg
10.34%
Magnesium:34.62mg
8.65%
Copper:0.14mg
6.77%
Fiber:1.68g
6.72%
Vitamin B1:0.1mg
6.6%
Potassium:222.58mg
6.36%
Vitamin B6:0.12mg
6.24%
Vitamin B5:0.53mg
5.3%
Vitamin B12:0.31µg
5.13%
Folate:20.44µg
5.11%
Vitamin B3:0.94mg
4.71%
Iron:0.83mg
4.63%
Vitamin E:0.35mg
2.34%
Vitamin K:1.42µg
1.35%
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