Best 3 Creamy Light Macaroni And Cheese Recipes
Macaroni and cheese, a classic dish enjoyed by people of all ages, offers a comforting and delicious meal. It comes in various forms, ranging from the traditional stovetop version to baked casseroles and instant options. In this article, we present a collection of macaroni and cheese recipes that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. From the creamy and light macaroni and cheese to the indulgent baked version with a crispy crust, our recipes guarantee a satisfying macaroni and cheese experience. Additionally, we include a recipe for a quick and easy instant pot macaroni and cheese for those seeking a hassle-free option. Whether you're looking for a classic comfort food or a creative twist on a familiar dish, our curated macaroni and cheese recipes have something for every macaroni and cheese enthusiast.
Let's cook with our recipes!
COOKING LIGHT'S CREAMY STOVE-TOP MACARONI AND CHEESE
From the June 2006 issue of Cooking Light magazine and featured in their Dinner Tonight section. This is a simple and quick main dish that is recommended to be served with a 7-Layer salad for a full meal. They suggest assembling the salad while the water comes to a boil for the pasta and making the sauce while the pasta cooks. Quick and easy for a weeknight meal.
Provided by Ms B.
Categories One Dish Meal
Time 40m
Yield 6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, place flour, salt, and pepper in a large saucepan.
- Add milk, stirring with a whisk until well blended. Drop cream cheese by teaspoonfuls into milk mixture; bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat; simmer 2 minutes or until thick and cream cheese melts, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in mustard, Worcestershire, and garlic; simmer 1 minute.
- Remove from heat.
- Add cheddar cheese, stirring until cheese melts.
- Combine pasta and cheese sauce in a large bowl; toss well.
CREAMY, LIGHT MACARONI AND CHEESE
From the September 2011 Cooking Light (cover recipe). This is the most delicious macaroni and cheese I've ever eaten! No one will know it's full of healthy butternut squash and just the right amount of cheese. This is a true winner! To save time, I bought my butternut squash in the produce section already cut up. Perfect and what a time saver. Use a pasta with a nice shape to cling to all the yummy sauce.
Provided by CaliforniaJan
Categories Macaroni And Cheese
Time 55m
Yield 8 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 15
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 375°.
- Combine squash, broth, milk, and garlic in a medium saucepan; bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium, and simmer until squash is tender when pierced with a fork, about 25 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Place the hot squash mixture in a blender. Add salt, pepper, and Greek yogurt. Remove the center piece of blender lid (to allow steam to escape); secure blender lid on blender. Place a clean towel over opening in blender lid (to avoid splatters). Blend until smooth. Place blended squash mixture in a bowl; stir in Gruyère, pecorino Romano, and 2 tablespoons Parmigiano-Reggiano. Stir until combined.
- Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt and fat; drain well. Add pasta to squash mixture, and stir until combined. Spread mixture evenly into a 13 x 9-inch glass or ceramic baking dish coated with cooking spray.
- Heat oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add panko, and cook for 2 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from heat; stir in remaining 2 tablespoons Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the hot pasta mixture. Lightly coat topping with cooking spray.
- Bake at 375° for 25 minutes or until bubbly. Sprinkle with parsley, and serve immediately.
CREAMY LIGHT MACARONI AND CHEESE
Steps:
- 1. Preheat oven to 375 2. Combine squash, broth, milk, and garlic in a medium saucepan: bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium, and simmer until squash is tender when pierced with a fork. About 25 min. Remove from heat. 3. Place hot squash mixture in a blender. add salt, pepper and yogurt. Remove the center piece of blender lid ( to allow steam to escape) Place a clean towel over open blender lid. Blend until smooth. Place blended squash mixture in a bowl. Stir in Gruyere, pecorino Romano, and 2 tablespoons Parmigiano Reggiano. Stir until combined. 4. Cook pasta according to package direction, omitting salt and fat. Add pasta to squash mixture and stir until combined. Spread in a 13x9 baking dish coated with cooking spray. Top with bread crumbs and remaining cheese. 6. Bake at 375 for 25 min. or until bubbly.
Tips for Making Creamy Light Macaroni and Cheese
- Use high-quality cheese. The type of cheese you use will have a big impact on the flavor of your macaroni and cheese. Choose a cheese that melts well and has a good flavor. Some good options include cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan.
- Make a roux. A roux is a mixture of butter and flour that is used to thicken sauces. It will help to give your macaroni and cheese a creamy texture.
- Use milk or cream. Milk or cream will help to make your macaroni and cheese creamy and smooth. You can use whole milk, skim milk, or even heavy cream. If you are using heavy cream, you may want to use less butter in your roux.
- Add some extras. You can add all sorts of things to your macaroni and cheese to make it even more delicious. Some popular options include cooked bacon, diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, and crumbled blue cheese.
- Don't overcook the macaroni. Macaroni that is overcooked will be mushy and unpleasant. Cook it according to the package directions, or until it is al dente.
Conclusion
Creamy light macaroni and cheese is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. With a few simple tips, you can make the perfect macaroni and cheese that your family and friends will love.
Are you curently on diet or you just want to control your food's nutritions, ingredients? We will help you find recipes by cooking method, nutrition, ingredients...
Check it out »
You'll also love
