Low-fat Macaroni and Cheese

Low-fat Macaroni and Cheese Recipe - Delicious and Healthy

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Low-fat Macaroni and Cheese is a healthier twist on the classic comfort food dish. This recipe cuts down on the fat content without sacrificing the creamy and cheesy flavor that we all love.

History

Macaroni and cheese has been a popular dish in American cuisine for decades. This low-fat version of the recipe was created to provide a healthier alternative for those looking to enjoy this comfort food without all the added calories.

Ingredients

1 box of your favorite packaged macaroni and cheese (with dry cheese)
1 can (14.5 oz (411 g)) of stewed tomatoes or 1 can (10.75 oz (305 g)) of Campbell's Healthy Request cream of mushroom soup
0.5 cup of skim milk
dry bread crumbs

How to prepare

Cook the macaroni according to the instructions on the package.
Drain the macaroni and return it to the pot.
Add the dry cheese and stewed tomatoes or soup, along with skim milk (do not use margarine or butter).
Stir the ingredients together until well combined.
Pour the mixture into a one quart baking dish and sprinkle with dry bread crumbs.
Bake for 30 minutes at 350°F (177°C), or until it starts bubbling around the edges.
Enjoy the dish.

Variations

Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
Add in cooked chicken or turkey for extra protein.
Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the macaroni al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when baked.

- Use skim milk instead of whole milk to reduce the fat content of the dish.

- Feel free to add in extra vegetables like broccoli or peas for added nutrition and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the macaroni and cheese helps to meld the flavors together and create a creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use whole milk or a milk alternative for a creamier texture.

- Substitute the stewed tomatoes with diced tomatoes for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this dish in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

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 microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Low-fat Macaroni and Cheese contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Low-fat Macaroni and Cheese contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This dish is low in fat, with only 5 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

Each serving of this macaroni and cheese dish contains 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of calcium, providing 20% of the recommended daily intake per serving.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy and wheat allergens.

Summary

Low-fat Macaroni and Cheese is a nutritious and delicious dish that is lower in fat and calories compared to traditional macaroni and cheese recipes.

Summary

Low-fat Macaroni and Cheese is a healthier version of the classic comfort food dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings without all the added calories. Enjoy this creamy and cheesy dish guilt-free!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe is still vivid in my mind. It was a beautiful summer day, the sun was shining brightly and the birds were chirping in the trees. I had been craving a comforting bowl of macaroni and cheese, but I knew that the traditional recipe was filled with unhealthy fats and calories. As someone who takes pride in cooking nutritious meals for my family, I set out on a mission to find a healthier alternative.

I decided to start by researching online, but I quickly became overwhelmed by the countless recipes and conflicting information. Determined to find the perfect low-fat macaroni and cheese recipe, I turned to my trusted network of friends and family for guidance. It was during a casual chat with my dear friend Margaret that I stumbled upon the key to unlocking the secret to a healthier mac and cheese.

Margaret had recently attended a cooking class where the instructor shared a recipe for a low-fat version of this beloved dish. She raved about how delicious it was and how easy it was to make. I knew I had to get my hands on this recipe, so I reached out to the instructor and begged her to share her secrets with me.

After a few phone calls and some persistent persuasion, the instructor finally agreed to send me the recipe. I was overjoyed and couldn't wait to get started on creating my own low-fat macaroni and cheese masterpiece. Armed with a list of ingredients and a sense of determination, I headed to the grocery store to gather everything I needed.

As I stood in the pasta aisle, carefully selecting the perfect whole wheat macaroni noodles, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. This was going to be the beginning of a new culinary adventure, one that would lead me to a healthier and happier version of a classic comfort food.

Back in my cozy kitchen, I set to work preparing the ingredients. I sautéed some onions and garlic in a small amount of olive oil, creating a flavorful base for the cheese sauce. Next, I added a mixture of skim milk and low-fat cheese, stirring until it became creamy and smooth. Finally, I tossed in the cooked macaroni noodles and gently folded everything together, ensuring that each bite would be rich and satisfying.

As the dish baked in the oven, filling my home with the warm and comforting aroma of melted cheese, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and satisfaction. I had successfully created a low-fat version of macaroni and cheese that was just as delicious as the original, if not more so.

When it was finally time to sit down and enjoy my creation, I scooped a generous portion onto my plate and took a tentative bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth, the creamy cheese sauce coating the tender noodles in a blanket of comfort and warmth. It was everything I had hoped for and more.

Since that day, low-fat macaroni and cheese has become a staple in my cooking repertoire. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, spreading the joy of this healthier version of a beloved classic. Every time I make it, I am reminded of that sunny summer day when I embarked on a culinary journey that would forever change the way I viewed comfort food.

Now, whenever I crave a bowl of macaroni and cheese, I reach for my trusty recipe and get to work creating a dish that is not only delicious but also good for my body and soul. And as I sit down to enjoy each satisfying bite, I am grateful for the friends, the instructor, and the memories that led me to discover the joy of low-fat macaroni and cheese.