Hearty Whole Wheat Macaroni and Cheesy Delight
Indulge in this delightful and healthier twist on classic macaroni and cheese! This Hearty Whole Wheat Macaroni and Cheesy Delight recipe combines the wholesome goodness of whole wheat pasta with a rich, creamy sauce made from nonfat milk and fat-free cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family meal, this dish is not only comforting but also nutritious, making it a wonderful option for those who are looking to enjoy their favorites while being mindful of their health. Easy to prepare and bake, this mac and cheese is sure to be a hit among kids and adults alike!
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Whole Wheat Macaroni
8 ounces (uncooked)
Olive Oil
2 tablespoons (for sautéing)
All-Purpose Flour
2 tablespoons (for thickening)
Nonfat Milk
2 cups (preferably 1% milk)
Fat-Free Cheddar Cheese
2 1/3 cups (shredded)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (to season)
Ground Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (to season)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2
Cook the whole wheat macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process.
3
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the flour, stirring constantly for about 2-3 minutes to create a roux.
4
Gradually whisk in the nonfat milk until the mixture is smooth. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil while continuing to whisk. Let it boil for 1 minute to thicken.
5
Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded fat-free cheddar cheese, salt, and ground pepper. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
6
Fold in the cooked whole wheat macaroni, ensuring it is well coated with the cheese sauce.
7
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into six individual serving dishes or one large 2-quart casserole dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
8
If using individual dishes, bake for 15 minutes, or bake the larger casserole for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9
Once baked, remove from the oven and let stand for 5 minutes before serving to set the dish.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Whole Wheat Macaroni and Cheesy Delight?
It is a healthier and nutritious twist on classic macaroni and cheese that uses whole wheat pasta and low-fat ingredients.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to make 6 servings.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
What kind of pasta should I use for this recipe?
You should use 8 ounces of uncooked whole wheat macaroni.
How long do I cook the whole wheat macaroni?
Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente.
Should the pasta be rinsed after cooking?
Yes, rinse the cooked macaroni under cool water to stop the cooking process.
What ingredients are needed for the thickening roux?
The roux is made using 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour.
What type of milk is suggested for the cheese sauce?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of nonfat milk, preferably 1% milk.
How long should I boil the milk and roux mixture?
Bring the mixture to a boil and let it boil for 1 minute while whisking to thicken.
What type of cheese is used in this dish?
The recipe uses 2 1/3 cups of shredded fat-free cheddar cheese.
How much cheese goes into the sauce?
2 cups of the shredded fat-free cheddar cheese should be stirred into the sauce.
When do I add the salt and pepper?
Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of ground pepper when mixing the cheese into the sauce.
How do I combine the pasta and the sauce?
Fold the cooked whole wheat macaroni into the large saucepan with the sauce until it is well coated.
Can I bake this recipe in individual dishes?
Yes, you can transfer the mixture into six individual serving dishes.
What size casserole dish should I use for a single batch?
A large 2-quart casserole dish is recommended.
What is used for the topping of the dish?
The remaining 1/3 cup of shredded fat-free cheddar cheese is used as a topping.
How long does the large casserole take to bake?
The large casserole should bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
How long do individual portions take to bake?
Individual dishes should be baked for 15 minutes.
Why should I let the dish stand for 5 minutes after baking?
Letting the dish stand allows it to set before serving.
Is this recipe considered a healthy option?
Yes, it uses whole wheat pasta, olive oil, nonfat milk, and fat-free cheese to provide a nutritious meal.
Can I use butter instead of olive oil?
The recipe specifically calls for olive oil to maintain its healthier profile, but butter is a common substitution for a roux.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, it is described as a hit among both kids and adults.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
How much flour is used?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour.
What is the primary protein source in this recipe?
The protein comes primarily from the fat-free cheddar cheese and the whole wheat pasta.
Can I add other seasonings?
While the recipe specifies salt and pepper, you can adjust seasonings to your preference.
Is the cheese melted on the stove or in the oven?
The cheese for the sauce is melted on the stove, while the topping cheese is melted in the oven.
Is this a stovetop or baked macaroni and cheese?
It is a baked macaroni and cheese recipe.
What color should the roux be?
The roux should be cooked for 2-3 minutes, generally staying a light color for a white sauce.
How do I know when the sauce is ready?
The sauce is ready when it has thickened after boiling and the cheese is fully melted and creamy.