Best 2 Creamy Makeover Macaroni And Cheese Recipes

Comfort food can provide a sense of nostalgia and warmth, and when it comes to comfort food, macaroni and cheese often tops the list. We take a classic dish to the next level, giving it a creamy makeover that will leave you craving for more with every bite. With a blend of cheeses, a hint of spice, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, this macaroni and cheese will be a hit at any gathering.

Let's cook with our recipes!

MAKEOVER CREAMY MACARONI AND CHEESE

Makeover Creamy Macaroni and Cheese image

With its creamy consistency and two different cheeses, this entree captures the essence of comfort food. But here's the kicker: it's been slimmed down for you so you can enjoy it without over indulging. -Darcie Zerniak, Ontario, New York

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Dinner

Time 55m

Yield 7 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
1/4 cup butter, cubed
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1-1/2 cups fat-free milk
1/4 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 cup fat-free sour cream
1/2 pound reduced-fat process cheese (Velveeta), cubed
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 cups shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
Minced chives, optional

Steps:

Cook macaroni according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, melt butter. Stir in flour until smooth. Gradually add milk and broth. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. , Reduce heat; stir in the sour cream, process cheese, Parmesan, mustard and pepper until smooth. , Drain macaroni; stir in cheddar cheese. Transfer to a 13x9-in. baking dish coated with cooking spray. Add cream sauce and mix well. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 35-40 minutes or until bubbly. Sprinkle with chives if desired.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 394 calories, Fat 18g fat (11g saturated fat), Cholesterol 61mg cholesterol, Sodium 842mg sodium, Carbohydrate 37g carbohydrate (9g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 23g protein.

CREAMY MAKEOVER MACARONI AND CHEESE

Creamy Makeover Macaroni and Cheese image

Your family will love the rich, creamy flavor of this mac & cheese recipe-and you'll feel good knowing we were able to slash the saturated fat of the original recipe. -April Taylor, Grafenwoehr, Germany

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Dinner

Time 55m

Yield 10 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 14

Ingredients

1 package (16 ounces) elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups fat-free half-and-half
2 cups fat-free milk
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 cups shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese
TOPPING:
1 medium onion, chopped
2 tablespoons butter
5 cups cubed bread
1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese

Steps:

Cook macaroni according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Combine flour and half-and-half; stir into pan. Add milk and seasonings. Bring to a gentle boil; remove from the heat. Stir in cheese until melted. Drain macaroni; add to the cheese sauce and stir to coat., Transfer to a 13x9-in. baking dish coated with cooking spray. In a large skillet, saute onion in butter until tender. Add bread; saute 2-3 minutes longer. Sprinkle bread mixture and cheese over macaroni mixture. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 432 calories, Fat 15g fat (9g saturated fat), Cholesterol 41mg cholesterol, Sodium 526mg sodium, Carbohydrate 55g carbohydrate (10g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 21g protein.

Tips:

Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Look for a sharp cheddar cheese that melts well and a creamy milk or cream.
Cook the macaroni according to the package directions, but drain it a little early so that it's still slightly al dente. This will help it hold its shape in the casserole.
Make sure the cheese sauce is smooth and creamy before adding it to the macaroni. If it's too thick, add a little more milk or cream. If it's too thin, cook it for a few minutes longer over low heat.
Season the casserole to taste with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. You can also add a dash of hot sauce or paprika for a little extra flavor.
Top the casserole with a layer of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking. This will give it a golden brown crust.
Bake the casserole for until it's bubbly and heated through. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Conclusion:

Creamy makeover macaroni and cheese is a delicious and comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion. It's easy to make and can be customized to your liking. With a few simple tips, you can create a macaroni and cheese casserole that's sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.