Slimmed Down Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Name: Slimmed Down Macaroni and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 pound dry elbow macaroni, (2 cups); 1 cup skim milk; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 1 sprig fresh parsley; 1 sprig fresh thyme; 1 bay leaf; 2 cups low-fat cheddar cheese, grated (about 8 ounces); 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces; 1 to 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard; 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt; Freshly grated nutmeg; Cayenne pepper; Freshly ground black pepper

Servings: persons

1/2 pound dry elbow macaroni, (2 cups)
1 cup skim milk
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 sprig fresh parsley
1 sprig fresh thyme
1 bay leaf
2 cups low-fat cheddar cheese, grated (about 8 ounces)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1 to 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
Freshly grated nutmeg
Cayenne pepper
Freshly ground black pepper

1
Bring a large pot of cold water to a boil and salt it generously.
2
Add the noodles, and cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.
3
Mix about 1 tablespoon of skim milk with the cornstarch and set aside.
4
Heat the remaining skim milk in a saucepan over medium heat with the parsley, thyme, and bay leaf.
5
When fragrant, whisk in the cornstarch mixture and bring to a boil over high heat, and simmer until the milk thickens.
6
Remove the herbs and stir in the cheese, until melted.
7
Whisk the butter, mustard, salt, nutmeg, and cayenne into the sauce.
8
Drain the pasta and transfer to a large bowl.
9
Toss with the cheese sauce and season with salt and black pepper.
10
Serve.

301

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 13 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1/2 pound dry elbow macaroni, (2 cups), 1 cup skim milk, 2 teaspoons cornstarch, 1 sprig fresh parsley, and more.

Yes, Slimmed Down Macaroni and Cheese falls under the Pasta & Noodles category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months — no need to refrigerate or reheat.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Slimmed Down Macaroni and Cheese

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions