light mac and cheese recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best light mac and cheese recipe

I’ve always been a fan of mac and cheese, and this light recipe is a game-changer. It’s a healthier twist on the classic comfort food that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions. My kids love it because it’s creamy and cheesy, but not too rich.

I love it because it’s easy to make and packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s a great way to get my family to eat more vegetables. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite add-ins, from cooked meats to steamed broccoli. I like to serve it with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad for a well-rounded meal. This light mac and cheese recipe has become a staple in our house, and I’m sure it will be in yours too once you try it out.

I’ve made this dish for countless family gatherings and potlucks, and it never fails to impress. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping side dish for the holidays, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And the best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make ahead of time, so you can prep it in advance and serve it up with minimal fuss. The next time you’re planning a meal or need a reliable side dish, give this light mac and cheese recipe a try – your taste buds (and your body) will thank you!

Light Mac and Cheese

Light Mac and Cheese

4.8 from 1480 votes

A creamy and comforting mac and cheese made light with whole wheat pasta and reduced fat cheese. This healthier version is just as satisfying as the classic, with a rich cheesy sauce and tender pasta.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz whole wheat elbow macaroni
4 cups water
1 tsp salt

For the Cheese Sauce

2 cups reduced-fat milk
2 cups reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup reduced-fat shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tbsp butter
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a large pot.
2Add 1 tsp of salt and the whole wheat elbow macaroni.
3Cook the pasta for 8-10 minutes, or until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4Drain the pasta through a colander and set aside.
5While the pasta is cooking, start preparing the cheese sauce.
6In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
7Add 2 tbsp of all-purpose flour and whisk to form a roux.
8Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until it turns a light golden color and bubbles slightly.
9Gradually add 2 cups of reduced-fat milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
10Cook the mixture over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly and begins to bubble.
11Add 2 cups of reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup of reduced-fat shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 tsp of salt, 1/4 tsp of black pepper, and 1/4 tsp of garlic powder.
12Stir the cheese sauce continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
13Combine the cooked pasta and cheese sauce in the large pot.
14Toss the pasta gently to coat it evenly with the sauce.
15If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
16Serve the light mac and cheese immediately, while it’s hot and bubbly.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan
Large pot
Colander
Whisk
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach to make this dish even healthier. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.

This light mac and cheese recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner or an elaborate holiday feast. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite add-ins and make ahead of time. Try serving it at your next family gathering or potluck – I promise everyone will love it!

And don’t forget to store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months – reheating is as simple as popping it in the microwave or oven.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Light Mac and Cheese

What type of pasta should I use for this light mac and cheese recipe?

You can use any type of pasta you like best, but I find that elbow macaroni works best because of its shape and size.

Can I use low-fat or fat-free cheese?

While you can use lower-fat cheese options, keep in mind that they may affect the overall taste and texture of the dish.

How do I add protein to this light mac and cheese recipe?

You can add cooked chicken, bacon, or steak to make the dish more substantial.

Can I make this light mac and cheese recipe vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use plant-based milk.

What are some good add-ins for this light mac and cheese recipe?

Sliced ham, steamed broccoli, diced tomatoes, or chopped cooked veggies are all great options.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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