Are you craving a comforting bowl of macaroni and cheese but worried about your waistline? Look no further! Our Weight Watchers Macaroni and Cheese is the perfect guilt-free indulgence that satisfies your cheesy cravings without derailing your healthy eating goals. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick 30-minute prep and cook time, you can whip up a creamy, delicious dish that serves four. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a lighter twist on a classic favorite—your taste buds will thank you!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat macaroni
- 2 cups low-fat milk
- 1 cup reduced-fat cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 cups of whole wheat macaroni, 2 cups of low-fat milk, 1 cup of shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup of flour, 1 tablespoon of butter, salt and pepper to taste, and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water, then add the whole wheat macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and set it aside.
- In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 1/4 cup of flour, whisking continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. This is called a roux, which will help thicken your cheese sauce.
- Gradually pour in 2 cups of low-fat milk while continuing to whisk to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture starts to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
- Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and add in the 1 cup of shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika for added flavor. Stir well to combine.
- Add the drained macaroni back into the pot with the cheese sauce. Gently stir until the macaroni is fully coated with the cheese sauce.
- Remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly before serving. This dish can be served immediately or kept warm on low heat.
- Enjoy your delicious Weight Watchers Macaroni and Cheese, serving 4 portions. Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: For the best texture, make sure to cook the whole wheat macaroni just until al dente. This will prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with the cheese sauce.
- Whisk the Roux Well: When making the roux, whisk continuously to ensure a smooth consistency. This step is crucial for a creamy cheese sauce without lumps.
- Add Cheese Gradually: After thickening the sauce, gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese while stirring. This helps the cheese melt evenly and prevents clumping.
- Season to Taste: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning! Taste the cheese sauce before adding the macaroni and tweak the salt, pepper, and paprika to your liking.
- Let it Sit: Allow the finished dish to sit for a couple of minutes after mixing in the macaroni. This helps the sauce thicken slightly, making it even creamier when served.
- Pair it Right: For a complete meal, serve your macaroni and cheese with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables. It adds a nutritious balance to your plate!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 283kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 16g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 33mg
