light macaroni and cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best light macaroni and cheese recipe

I’ve always been a fan of macaroni and cheese, and I’m not alone in my family. This light version is a game-changer for anyone looking to indulge in this comforting classic without the guilt. As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are easy to make, delicious, and won’t weigh my kids down with heavy calories.

This light macaroni and cheese recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. I’ve served it at family gatherings, potlucks, and even as a side dish for holidays.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and add-ins. My kids love helping me mix in different types of cheese, veggies, or meats to create their own unique combinations.

The result is a dish that’s both familiar and exciting, making it a staple in our household. I’ve experimented with various ratios of pasta to cheese, and this light version has become our go-to. By using less pasta and more cheese (and a few clever tricks), we achieve the same creamy texture without the excess carbs.

My family devours this dish in minutes, and I love serving it with a side of steamed broccoli or a green salad for added nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or want to impress your friends with an easy yet impressive side dish, this light macaroni and cheese recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Light Macaroni and Cheese

Light Macaroni and Cheese

4.7 from 976 votes

A creamy, satisfying macaroni and cheese made with reduced-fat milk, sharp cheddar, and a touch of Greek yogurt for tang. This lighter version cuts calories and fat while keeping the classic comfort food flavor.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz elbow macaroni
1 tbsp salt for pasta water

For the Cheese Sauce

2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups 1% milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp paprika (optional)

Optional Topping

1/4 cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs
1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add 1 tablespoon salt and the elbow macaroni, then cook until al dente, about 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
4In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
5Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbly and golden.
6Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
7Continue whisking the sauce over medium heat until it thickens and just begins to simmer, about 3 to 4 minutes.
8Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
9Then whisk in the Greek yogurt, salt, pepper, and paprika until well combined.
10Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until every piece is coated.
11For a stovetop version, serve immediately while hot.
12For a baked version, preheat the oven to 375°F, transfer the mixture to a greased 9×9-inch baking dish, and top with a mixture of panko and Parmesan.
13Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the top is golden and the edges are bubbly.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Medium saucepan
Whisk
Colander
9×9-inch baking dish (if baking)
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 650mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

For an even lighter version, use 2% milk and reduce the butter to 1 tablespoon. The Greek yogurt adds creaminess without extra fat. If you prefer a crunchy topping, broil the panko-topped dish for the last 2 minutes of baking.

Watch Video Of How Light Macaroni and Cheese Works

This light macaroni and cheese recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a comforting meal after a long day. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and add-ins. Simply mix in different types of cheese, veggies, or meats to create your own unique combinations.

My family loves helping me mix up the ingredients and trying new variations.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Light Macaroni and Cheese

Q: What makes this macaroni and cheese recipe ‘light’?

This recipe uses less pasta than traditional macaroni and cheese recipes, which reduces the overall calorie count.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can use any combination of cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan, or other cheeses you prefer.

Q: How do I customize this recipe for my family’s tastes?

You can add your favorite ingredients such as cooked veggies, meats, or spices to make it more interesting.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This recipe is perfect for meal prep – you can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and bake it later.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians or vegans?

This recipe is vegetarian-friendly but not vegan due to the use of dairy products. You can substitute with plant-based milk alternatives if needed.

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