Trimmed-Down Macaroni And Cheese
A lighter, cheesy macaroni and cheese with reduced-fat ingredients, creamy texture, and comforting flavors, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package directions, omitting salt and fat.
- Drain well and set aside.
- Melt margarine in a heavy saucepan over low heat.
- Add flour, stirring until smooth.
- Cook 1 minute, stirring constantly, until thickened and bubbly.
- Stir in salt and shredded cheese, stirring until cheese melts.
- Gradually stir about 1/4 of hot cheese mixture into egg substitute.
- Add remaining hot mixture, stirring constantly.
- Stir cheese sauce into cooked macaroni.
- Pour into a 2-quart baking dish coated with cooking spray.
- Sprinkle with paprika.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a mix of reduced fat cheddar and mozzarella. If you prefer a bit of spice, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. Whole wheat elbow macaroni can be a great substitute for a healthier option. Be sure to cook the macaroni al dente, as it will soften further during baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Trimmed-Down Macaroni and Cheese pairs beautifully with a side of Creamy Lettuce Salad for a fresh contrast. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or steamed vegetables. You can also sprinkle some extra cheese on top before baking for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Trimmed-Down Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 854 calories, with 12g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (96% of the Daily Value), iron (47% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 879mg per serving (38% 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 use regular cheese instead of reduced fat?
Yes, you can use regular cheese if you prefer a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that it will increase the calorie content. Experiment with different cheese types to find your favorite combination.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great alternatives that cook similarly to regular pasta, ensuring you still enjoy a delicious dish without gluten.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese ahead of time. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
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).