Creamy Whole Wheat Cheese Mac
Indulge in this creamy and comforting whole wheat macaroni and cheese that's both delicious and mindful of your health goals! This guilt-free version utilizes whole wheat elbow macaroni along with a delightful blend of shredded Kraft 2% sharp cheddar and Weight Watchers Mexican blend cheese for an irresistible flavor. With just 6 points per serving on the Weight Watchers plan, you can enjoy a soul-satisfying dish that pairs perfectly with a side salad or your favorite vegetables. This simple recipe allows you to prepare the cheese sauce while the pasta cooks, ensuring a seamless and quick cooking experience. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family meal!
6
Servings
200
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Whole Wheat Elbow Macaroni
16 ounces (Cooked according to package directions)
Skim Milk
2 cups (Used (1% milk can be substituted))
All-Purpose Flour
1/4 cup (None)
Salt
3/4 teaspoon (None)
Onion Powder
3/4 teaspoon (None)
Pepper
To taste (Ground)
Low-Fat Cheddar Cheese
1 cup (Shredded (or a combination of cheeses as desired))
Hot Sauce
1/8 teaspoon (Tabasco sauce or your favorite hot sauce)
Instructions
1
Begin by cooking the whole wheat macaroni according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
2
While the macaroni is cooking, in a large saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the skim milk, flour, salt, onion powder, and a dash of pepper until all ingredients are well combined.
3
Continue to whisk the mixture as it heats, bringing it to a gentle boil. Make sure to stir frequently to prevent sticking and uneven cooking.
4
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the sauce to thicken by stirring often for about 2 to 5 minutes, or until the desired consistency is reached.
5
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the low-fat cheddar cheese and the hot sauce (Tabasco). Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
6
Finally, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, tossing until all the pasta is evenly coated with the rich and creamy sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy your healthy indulgence!
Nutrition Information
5g
Fat
10g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Whole Wheat Cheese Mac?
It is a comforting, healthy version of macaroni and cheese made with whole wheat pasta and a low-fat cheese sauce.
How many Weight Watchers points are in one serving?
Each serving is 6 points on the Weight Watchers plan.
What type of pasta is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 16 ounces of whole wheat elbow macaroni.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What are the calories per serving?
There are 200 calories per serving.
How much fat is in one serving?
One serving contains 5 grams of fat.
How much protein is in one serving?
One serving contains 10 grams of protein.
Can I use a milk other than skim milk?
Yes, 1% milk can be substituted for the skim milk if desired.
What type of cheese is recommended for this recipe?
You can use low-fat cheddar, Kraft 2% sharp cheddar, or Weight Watchers Mexican blend cheese.
How do I thicken the cheese sauce?
The sauce is thickened by whisking flour into milk and simmering the mixture for 2 to 5 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.
Is hot sauce required for this recipe?
The recipe includes 1/8 teaspoon of hot sauce, such as Tabasco, for added flavor, but it can be adjusted to taste.
What seasonings are used in the sauce?
The sauce is seasoned with salt, onion powder, and ground pepper.
How long should the sauce simmer?
The sauce should simmer for approximately 2 to 5 minutes.
Should I boil the milk mixture?
Yes, bring the milk and flour mixture to a gentle boil before reducing it to a simmer.
When should I add the cheese to the sauce?
Remove the saucepan from the heat before stirring in the cheese to ensure it melts smoothly.
Can I make this recipe on a busy weeknight?
Yes, this is an easy, quick recipe where the sauce can be prepared while the pasta cooks.
What should I serve with this mac and cheese?
It pairs perfectly with a side salad or your favorite fresh vegetables.
How much flour is used in the recipe?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour.
How much onion powder is needed?
The recipe calls for 3/4 teaspoon of onion powder.
Is the pasta cooked separately?
Yes, the macaroni should be cooked according to package instructions and drained before being added to the sauce.
How do I prevent the sauce from sticking to the pan?
Stir the mixture frequently while it heats and simmers to prevent sticking.
What is the amount of cheese required?
The recipe uses 1 cup of shredded low-fat cheddar cheese.
Can I use different shapes of pasta?
While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use other whole wheat pasta shapes if preferred.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as long as the cheese and other ingredients used meet vegetarian standards.
How much salt is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 3/4 teaspoon of salt.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to cook the whole wheat macaroni according to the package instructions.
How do I ensure the pasta is evenly coated?
Toss the cooked macaroni thoroughly with the cheese sauce until every piece is covered.
Can I use a Mexican blend of cheese?
Yes, the description suggests a Weight Watchers Mexican blend cheese as an excellent option.
Is this dish considered comfort food?
Yes, it is described as a soul-satisfying and comforting healthy meal.
What is the texture of the finished sauce?
The finished sauce is rich, creamy, and smooth.