Light and Creamy Mac and Cheese

Health score
10%
Light and Creamy Mac and Cheese
10 min.
2
373kcal

Suggestions


Are you craving a comforting dish that’s both light and satisfying? Look no further than this Light and Creamy Mac and Cheese! Perfectly portioned for two, this delightful recipe is not only quick to prepare—ready in just 10 minutes—but also packs a punch with its creamy texture and rich flavors. Whether you’re looking for a side dish to complement your meal, a quick lunch, or a main course that won’t weigh you down, this mac and cheese fits the bill.

What sets this recipe apart is its clever use of fat-free ingredients, allowing you to indulge without the guilt. The combination of reduced-fat cream cheese and process American cheese creates a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the jumbo elbow macaroni. Plus, the addition of sweet peas not only adds a pop of color but also a nutritious boost, making this dish a well-rounded option for any time of day.

To top it all off, a sprinkle of crushed herb-seasoned croutons adds a delightful crunch, elevating your mac and cheese experience to new heights. With a caloric breakdown that balances protein, fat, and carbs, this dish is as wholesome as it is delicious. So grab your frying pan and whisk, and let’s whip up a bowl of this creamy goodness that’s sure to please your taste buds!

Ingredients

  • tablespoons croutons fat-free crushed
  • oz elbow macaroni uncooked
  • 0.7 cup skim milk fat-free (skim)
  • oz cream cheese softened cut into small pieces, reduced-fat (Neufchâtel)
  • 0.3 cup peas sweet frozen
  • 1.5 oz processed cheese food 

Equipment

  • frying pan
  • whisk

Directions

  1. Cook and drain macaroni as directed on package, omitting salt and adding peas for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  2. Meanwhile, in 10-inch nonstick skillet, heat milk, cream cheese and American cheese over medium-low heat, stirring carefully with wire whisk, until cheese is melted.
  3. Add cooked macaroni and peas to cheese sauce; stir to coat.
  4. Let stand 2 to 3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
  5. Serve topped with croutons.

Nutrition Facts

Calories373kcal
Protein17.71%
Fat26.04%
Carbs56.25%

Properties

Glycemic Index
88.29
Glycemic Load
9.75
Inflammation Score
-6
Nutrition Score
15.544782830321%

Nutrients percent of daily need

Calories:372.66kcal
18.63%
Fat:10.71g
16.47%
Saturated Fat:5.53g
34.55%
Carbohydrates:52.03g
17.34%
Net Carbohydrates:48.54g
17.65%
Sugar:7.94g
8.82%
Cholesterol:31.37mg
10.46%
Sodium:546.63mg
23.77%
Alcohol:0g
100%
Alcohol %:0%
100%
Protein:16.38g
32.77%
Selenium:39.35µg
56.22%
Calcium:377.18mg
37.72%
Phosphorus:368.7mg
36.87%
Manganese:0.58mg
28.78%
Vitamin B1:0.25mg
16.62%
Vitamin B2:0.28mg
16.51%
Vitamin B12:0.92µg
15.38%
Fiber:3.49g
13.97%
Zinc:2.01mg
13.39%
Magnesium:51.56mg
12.89%
Vitamin A:630.65IU
12.61%
Folate:48.91µg
12.23%
Vitamin C:9.67mg
11.72%
Vitamin B3:2.16mg
10.81%
Potassium:371.59mg
10.62%
Copper:0.21mg
10.27%
Iron:1.67mg
9.27%
Vitamin B6:0.17mg
8.51%
Vitamin B5:0.77mg
7.69%
Vitamin D:1.07µg
7.12%
Vitamin K:6.74µg
6.42%
Vitamin E:0.29mg
1.91%