Lite Mac-N-Cheese
Lite Mac-N-Cheese offers a creamy, cheesy comfort with a lighter twist, ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings. The combination of cottage cheese, sour cream, and sharp cheddar creates a rich flavor profile, balanced by a hint of mustard and seasonings, making it a satisfying and wholesome dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- In a large bowl, mix cottage cheese, sour cream, egg, salt, pepper, and mustard.
- Add cooked macaroni to the mixture and stir well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Top with remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cottage cheese and sour cream. You can also substitute the macaroni with whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist. If you're looking for extra flavor, add some garlic powder or onion powder to the cheese mixture. This dish is versatile; you can incorporate veggies like steamed broccoli or spinach, similar to a Deviled Egg And Broccoli Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Lite Mac-N-Cheese with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or roasted asparagus. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or a protein of your choice. This dish is a great comfort food and fits well into vegetarian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lite Mac-N-Cheese contains roughly 640 calories, with 15g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (31% of the Daily Value) and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2452mg per serving (107% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and assemble the dish a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for the Cheddar cheese?
If you’re out of Cheddar, feel free to use other types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend of your favorites like Pepper Jack for a kick. Just make sure to adjust the amount to maintain the creamy texture.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze this Lite Mac-N-Cheese. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake until warmed through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).