Low-cal Macaroni Bake
Low-cal Macaroni Bake Recipe - Healthy and Delicious
Introduction
Low-cal Macaroni Bake is a delicious and healthy twist on a classic comfort food dish. This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a satisfying meal without all the extra calories.
History
Macaroni and cheese has been a popular dish in American cuisine for decades. This low-cal version of the classic recipe was created to provide a healthier alternative for those looking to watch their calorie intake.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked macaroni
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp margarine
- 0.25 cup flour
- 2 cups skimmed milk
- 2 tsp dill weed
- 2 tsp parsley
- 0.13 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp pepper
- 2 cups low-fat cottage cheese
- 0.33 cup bread crumbs
- 1 pinch paprika
How to prepare
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
- In a pan, sauté the onions in margarine, then add flour.
- Gradually stir in the milk until the mixture thickens.
- Add the spices.
- Mix in the cheese.
- Add the macaroni.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow pan.
- Sprinkle with crumbs and paprika on top.
- Bake for 45 minutes.
Variations
- Use whole wheat macaroni for added fiber.
- Add in cooked chicken or turkey for extra protein.
- Use different herbs and spices for a unique flavor profile.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to cook the macaroni al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when baked.
- Feel free to add in extra vegetables such as spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
- For a crispy topping, broil the dish for a few minutes at the end of the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the low-cal macaroni bake with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
Baking
Ingredient Substitutions
Use whole milk or a dairy-free alternative in place of skimmed milk.
- Substitute butter for margarine if desired.
Make Ahead Tips
This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the low-cal macaroni bake with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 250 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 35g per serving
Fats
Total Fat: 6g per serving
Saturated Fat: 3g per serving
Proteins
Protein: 15g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
Calcium: 20% of daily value per serving
Iron: 10% of daily value per serving
Alergens
Contains dairy and wheat
Summary
This low-cal macaroni bake is a balanced meal with a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of calcium and iron.
Summary
Low-cal Macaroni Bake is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthier version of a classic comfort food. With a good balance of nutrients and flavors, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of awe. It was a cold winter evening and I had just finished a long day of work at the hospital. As I walked into my friend Mary's cozy kitchen, the smell of something delicious wafted through the air.
Mary greeted me with a warm smile and handed me a cup of hot tea. "I've been working on a new recipe," she said excitedly. "It's a low-cal macaroni bake and I think you're going to love it."
I watched as Mary expertly mixed the ingredients together, explaining each step as she went. She had a way of making cooking seem effortless and fun. As I tasted the final product, my taste buds exploded with flavor. The macaroni was perfectly cooked, the cheese was gooey and delicious, and the breadcrumbs on top added a satisfying crunch.
After that night, I couldn't stop thinking about Mary's low-cal macaroni bake. I asked her for the recipe and she happily shared it with me. I made it for my family the following week and they devoured it in minutes. From that moment on, it became a staple in my cooking repertoire.
As I continued to make the low-cal macaroni bake over the years, I added my own twists and variations to the recipe. Sometimes I would use different types of cheese or add in extra vegetables for a healthier spin. Other times, I would experiment with different seasonings to give it a unique flavor profile.
One day, as I was making the macaroni bake for a family gathering, my granddaughter Emma asked me how I had learned to make such a delicious dish. I smiled and told her the story of how I had first discovered the recipe from my friend Mary.
Emma's eyes lit up with excitement. "Grandma, can you teach me how to make it too?" she asked eagerly.
I chuckled and patted her on the head. "Of course, my dear. Cooking is all about sharing recipes and passing on traditions. I would be happy to teach you how to make the low-cal macaroni bake."
And so, Emma and I spent the afternoon in the kitchen, bonding over mixing ingredients and preparing the dish. As we sat down to eat the macaroni bake together, I felt a sense of pride knowing that I was passing down a recipe that had brought me so much joy and satisfaction over the years.
As I watched Emma take her first bite, a smile spread across her face. "This is delicious, Grandma!" she exclaimed.
I smiled back at her, feeling a sense of fulfillment. Cooking had always been a passion of mine, and being able to share that passion with my granddaughter was truly special.
Over the years, Emma grew to love cooking just as much as I did. She would often come over to my house to learn new recipes and techniques. The low-cal macaroni bake became one of her favorites, and she would make it for her friends and family with pride.
As I sat back and watched Emma flourish in the kitchen, I knew that the tradition of cooking and sharing recipes would continue to live on in our family for generations to come. And it all started with a simple recipe for low-cal macaroni bake that brought us together in the joy of cooking.
Categories
| Breadcrumb Recipes | Cottage Cheese Recipes | Low-calorie Recipes | Macaroni And Cheese Recipes | Macaroni Recipes | Non-fat Milk Recipes | Onion Recipes |