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Creamy cheesy macaroni

August 29, 2019
Recipe

This whole-wheat pasta is creamy, cheesy and lower in fat than other homemade varieties.

Serves 10

This healthier version of macaroni and cheese has more fiber and less fat but still delivers the desired cheesy flavor and creamy texture.


Cook macaroni according to package directions. Meanwhile, blend cottage cheese in a food processor or blender until smooth. Set aside.

In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine oil, flour, pepper and garlic powder. Stir until mixed. Gradually stir in the milk and bring to a boil. Cook for 2 minutes or until thickened and smooth. Add cottage cheese and cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.

Spray a 2-quart casserole dish with cooking spray. After the macaroni has been cooked and drained, place it in the prepared dish. Pour the cheese mixture over the macaroni and mix until blended. Bake at 350 F for about 30 minutes, or until heated through. Top with tomatoes just before serving.


  • 1 package (14.5 ounces) whole-wheat elbow macaroni
  • 1 1/2 cups fat-free cottage cheese
  • 2 tablespoons canola oil
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 cups skim milk
  • 2 cups reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, cut in half
  • Fresh parsley for garnish, optional

DASH Eating Plan Servings

1 Dairy foods (low-fat or fat-free) 1 Fats and oils Fruits 3 Grains and grain products Meats, poultry and fish Nuts, seeds and dry beans Sweets Vegetables

Diabetes Meal Plan Choices

1 Fats Dairy foods (low-fat or fat-free) Fruits 1 Meat and meat substitutes Milk and milk products Nonstarchy vegetables 3.5 Starches Sweets, desserts and other carbohydrates

Mayo Clinic Healthy Weight Pyramid Servings

2.5 Carbohydrates 1 Fats Fruits 1 Protein and dairy Sweets Vegetables

Nutritional analysis per serving

Calcium 316 Calories 43 g Total carbohydrate 18 mg Cholesterol 4 g Dietary fiber 2 g Monounsaturated fat Potassium 18 g Protein 4 g Saturated fat 1 cup Serving size 327 mg Sodium 8 g Total fat