Yummy Low Fat Mac and Cheese

Indulge in comfort food guilt-free with this Yummy Low Fat Mac and Cheese recipe, perfect for health-conscious pasta lovers! Made with creamy low-fat sharp cheddar, a touch of low-fat cream cheese, and a luscious milk-based sauce thickened with cornstarch, this dish delivers all the rich, cheesy goodness you crave without the extra calories. Whole wheat elbow macaroni adds a wholesome touch, while Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder pack in bold flavor. Ready in just 30 minutes, this lightened-up classic is ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. Serve it warm with a dash of paprika for a pop of color and extra flair, and enjoy a satisfying, healthier twist on mac and cheese!

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 8 oz Elbow macaroni (whole wheat or regular)
• 2 cups Low-fat milk (1% or skim)
• 1.5 cups Low-fat sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tbsp Low-fat cream cheese
• 1 tbsp Cornstarch
• 0.5 cup Vegetable broth
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 0.5 tsp Garlic powder
• 0.5 tsp Onion powder
• 0.5 tsp Salt
• 0.25 tsp Black pepper
• 0.25 tsp Paprika (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of the milk to form a slurry. Set aside.

Step 3

In a medium saucepan, heat the remaining milk and vegetable broth over medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent scorching.

Step 4

Once the liquid is warmed through (but not boiling), slowly stir in the cornstarch slurry. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 6

Add the shredded cheddar cheese in small handfuls, stirring constantly to allow each addition to melt fully before adding more.

Step 7

Mix in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, stirring until the sauce is smooth and well combined.

Step 8

Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni and stir gently to coat all the pasta evenly.

Step 9

Serve immediately, optionally garnished with a sprinkle of paprika for added color and flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1045.1 grams (1045.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1694

Total Fat 31.30g	40%
Saturated Fat 15.90g	80%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.40g
Cholesterol 90mg	30%
Sodium 1947mg	85%
Total Carbohydrate 220.30g	80%
Dietary Fiber 9.70g	35%
Total Sugars 33.40g
Protein 106.10g	212%

Vitamin D 290IU	1450%
Calcium 1923mg	148%
Iron 10mg	56%
Potassium 1664mg	35%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 17.7%

Protein: 26.7%

Carbs: 55.5%