Skinny Macaroni and Cheese

Vegetarian
Health score
22%
Skinny Macaroni and Cheese
45 min.
6
328kcal

Suggestions


Indulge in a lighter twist on a classic comfort food with our Skinny Macaroni and Cheese! This vegetarian delight is perfect for those who crave the creamy, cheesy goodness of traditional mac and cheese but want to keep their meals on the healthier side. With just 328 calories per serving, you can enjoy this dish guilt-free, whether as a side, a satisfying lunch, or even a main course.

Made with whole wheat elbow macaroni and a rich, velvety cheese sauce crafted from fat-free milk and reduced-fat sharp Cheddar, this recipe is not only delicious but also packed with flavor. The addition of Dijon mustard and a hint of cayenne pepper elevates the taste profile, giving it a subtle kick that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Ready in just 45 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. The bubbly, golden edges and creamy center make for an inviting presentation that will impress your guests. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up a bowl of comfort that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients

  • oz multigrain elbow macaroni whole wheat uncooked
  • cups skim milk fat-free (skim)
  • tablespoons flour all-purpose
  • teaspoon dijon mustard 
  • 0.3 teaspoon salt 
  • 0.3 teaspoon pepper black
  • 0.1 teaspoon ground pepper red (cayenne)
  • oz sharp cheddar cheese shredded reduced-fat

Equipment

  • sauce pan
  • oven
  • whisk
  • baking pan
  • glass baking pan

Directions

  1. In 3-quart saucepan, cook and drain macaroni as directed on package. Return to saucepan; cover to keep warm.
  2. Meanwhile, heat oven to 350°F. Spray 8-inch square (2-quart) glass baking dish with cooking spray. In 2-quart saucepan, stir milk, flour, mustard, salt, black pepper and red pepper with wire whisk until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture boils and thickens.
  3. Remove from heat. Stir in cheese until melted.
  4. Add cheese sauce to cooked macaroni; mix well. Spoon into baking dish.
  5. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until edges are bubbly.

Nutrition Facts

Calories328kcal
Protein20.86%
Fat36.11%
Carbs43.03%

Properties

Glycemic Index
38.54
Glycemic Load
3.66
Inflammation Score
-6
Nutrition Score
16.118260849105%

Nutrients percent of daily need

Calories:328.03kcal
16.4%
Fat:13.52g
20.8%
Saturated Fat:7.41g
46.28%
Carbohydrates:36.26g
12.09%
Net Carbohydrates:36.09g
13.12%
Sugar:4.28g
4.75%
Cholesterol:40.25mg
13.42%
Sodium:389.88mg
16.95%
Alcohol:0g
100%
Alcohol %:0%
100%
Protein:17.57g
35.15%
Manganese:1.2mg
60.09%
Selenium:41.49µg
59.27%
Calcium:391.74mg
39.17%
Phosphorus:363.23mg
36.32%
Vitamin B2:0.35mg
20.43%
Magnesium:75.49mg
18.87%
Vitamin B1:0.27mg
18.16%
Zinc:2.68mg
17.9%
Vitamin B12:0.87µg
14.57%
Vitamin B3:2.29mg
11.43%
Vitamin A:563.73IU
11.27%
Copper:0.19mg
9.65%
Folate:38.1µg
9.52%
Iron:1.63mg
9.07%
Vitamin B5:0.84mg
8.4%
Vitamin B6:0.16mg
8.06%
Vitamin D:1.13µg
7.5%
Potassium:253.99mg
7.26%
Vitamin E:0.3mg
2.01%
Vitamin K:1.1µg
1.05%