Best 2 Light And Creamy Mac And Cheese Recipes

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Indulge in the classic comfort food experience with this collection of light and creamy mac and cheese recipes. Whether you prefer a traditional baked mac and cheese, a quick and easy stovetop version, or a healthier alternative, we have something for every taste and dietary preference. From the ultimate creamy mac and cheese with a crispy breadcrumb topping to a lightened-up version made with Greek yogurt and whole wheat pasta, these recipes offer a delightful twist on the classic dish. Discover the perfect mac and cheese recipe for your next family gathering, potluck, or cozy night in.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

LIGHT AND CREAMY MAC AND CHEESE



Light and Creamy Mac and Cheese image

Six ingredients and ten minutes create a one-dish mac and cheese just for two.

Provided by By Betty Crocker Kitchens

Categories     Entree

Time 10m

Yield 2

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 cup uncooked jumbo elbow macaroni (3 oz)
1/3 cup frozen sweet peas
2/3 cup fat-free (skim) milk
1 oz reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufchâtel), cut into small pieces, softened
2 slices (3/4 oz each) process American cheese
2 tablespoons crushed fat-free herb-seasoned croutons

Steps:

  • Cook and drain macaroni as directed on package, omitting salt and adding peas for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  • Meanwhile, in 10-inch nonstick skillet, heat milk, cream cheese and American cheese over medium-low heat, stirring carefully with wire whisk, until cheese is melted.
  • Add cooked macaroni and peas to cheese sauce; stir to coat. Let stand 2 to 3 minutes or until slightly thickened. Serve topped with croutons.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 350, Carbohydrate 45 g, Cholesterol 30 mg, Fiber 3 g, Protein 17 g, SaturatedFat 7 g, ServingSize 1 Serving, Sodium 440 mg, Sugar 6 g, TransFat 0 g

LIGHT AND CREAMY MAC AND CHEESE



Light and Creamy Mac and Cheese image

Six ingredients and ten minutes create a one-dish mac and cheese just for two.

Provided by Betty Crocker Kitchens

Categories     Entree

Time 10m

Yield 2

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 cup uncooked jumbo elbow macaroni (3 oz)
1/3 cup frozen sweet peas
2/3 cup fat-free (skim) milk
1 oz reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufchâtel), cut into small pieces, softened
2 slices (3/4 oz each) process American cheese
2 tablespoons crushed fat-free herb-seasoned croutons

Steps:

  • Cook and drain macaroni as directed on package, omitting salt and adding peas for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  • Meanwhile, in 10-inch nonstick skillet, heat milk, cream cheese and American cheese over medium-low heat, stirring carefully with wire whisk, until cheese is melted.
  • Add cooked macaroni and peas to cheese sauce; stir to coat. Let stand 2 to 3 minutes or until slightly thickened. Serve topped with croutons.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 350, Carbohydrate 45 g, Cholesterol 30 mg, Fiber 3 g, Protein 17 g, SaturatedFat 7 g, ServingSize 1 Serving, Sodium 440 mg, Sugar 6 g, TransFat 0 g

Tips:

  • Use a quality cheese. The type of cheese you use will greatly impact the flavor of your mac and cheese. Use a sharp cheddar cheese for a bold flavor, or a mild cheddar cheese for a more subtle flavor.
  • Use a creamy milk. Whole milk or half-and-half will give your mac and cheese a rich and creamy texture. You can also use a combination of milk and cream for an even richer flavor.
  • Cook the pasta al dente. This means that the pasta should be cooked through, but still have a slight bite to it. Overcooked pasta will make your mac and cheese mushy.
  • Use a roux. A roux is a mixture of butter and flour that is used to thicken sauces. It will help to make your mac and cheese creamy and smooth.
  • Don't overcook the mac and cheese. Once the cheese has melted and the pasta is coated, remove the mac and cheese from the heat. Overcooking will make the cheese tough and rubbery.

Conclusion:

Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. With so many different variations to choose from, there is sure to be a mac and cheese recipe that everyone will love. Whether you like your mac and cheese simple or loaded with toppings, there is a recipe out there for you. So next time you're looking for a quick and easy meal, give one of these mac and cheese recipes a try. You won't be disappointed!

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