By Alexis Weisser, 2019 University of Minnesota Dietetic Intern
This is a mac & cheese that tasted good and met the criteria for Regions Hospital in St. Paul, MN, heart healthy menu. After many taste tests, we settled on this recipe that is creamy, dense with a delightful garlic flavor. Cheers to a healthy version of one of the greatest comfort foods.
To make this recipe heart healthy, we use a blend of cheddar cheese and part-skim mozzarella cheese which reduces the amount of saturated fat and sodium. The mac & cheese alone contains 10 grams of protein. For additional protein, try adding shredded chicken.
Heart Healthy Mac & Cheese makes 4, 8oz servings
Ingredients
- 1 oz (1/4 stick) salted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tsp garlic, minced
- ¾ cup quarts low-sodium chicken stock
- ¼ tsp white pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tsp white cooking wine
- 2 oz (1/4 cup) low-fat cream cheese
- 1/3 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cup pasta, cooked
Directions
- Boil pasta according to box instructions, drain extra water
- Melt butter in large saucepan, add flour until combined
- Add garlic and low-sodium chicken broth to pan, simmer on low, add salt and pepper
- Add white cooking wine and cream cheese, stir until combined
- Slowly add cheeses to saucepan, stirring frequently
- Boil pasta according to box instructions and drain extra water
- Combine noodles and cheese sauce
- Serve immediately or refrigerate
Nutrition Info (1 serving): 260 calories, 13 g total fat, 8 g saturated fat, 35 mg cholesterol, 400 mg sodium, 25 g carbohydrates, 1 g fiber, 0 g added sugars, 10 g protein
