Craving a guilt-free comfort food that doesn't compromise on flavor? Get ready to revolutionize your mac and cheese experience with this incredibly light and delicious stovetop recipe that will make your taste buds dance! In just 25 minutes, you'll create a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that's lower in calories but packed with all the classic comfort food goodness you love. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a quick, satisfying meal that won't leave you feeling heavy.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups low-fat milk
- 2 cups shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a separate large skillet or saucepan, pour the low-fat milk and heat over medium-low temperature.
- Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese to the warm milk, stirring constantly to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Sprinkle in mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and uniform.
- Drain the cooked macaroni in a colander, shaking off excess water. Immediately add the pasta to the cheese sauce.
- Gently fold the macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring each pasta piece is evenly coated.
- In a small skillet, lightly toast breadcrumbs until golden brown, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to serving dishes and sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your light, creamy macaroni and cheese.
Tips
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce - pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
- Keep the heat low when melting cheese to prevent separation and maintain a silky texture.
- Stir the pasta constantly while cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Toast breadcrumbs carefully - they can burn quickly, so keep a close eye and stir frequently.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with a little extra milk; if too thin, continue cooking to reduce.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature - mac and cheese tends to set as it cools.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
