Whole Wheat Mac and Cheese
Here’s a kid-friendly recipe for Whole Wheat Mac and Cheese that’s both delicious and nutritious!
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces whole wheat elbow macaroni
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk (you can use whole or low-fat)
– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (you can mix with mozzarella for extra creaminess)
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, for extra flavor)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, or extra cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
– In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the whole wheat macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
– In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux (this will help thicken the sauce).
– Gradually pour in the milk while continuing to whisk to prevent lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture starts to thicken (about 3-5 minutes).
3. Add the Cheese:
– Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese (and mozzarella, if using). Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
– Add garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference.
4. Combine:
– Add the cooked whole wheat macaroni back into the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta is well coated.
5. Optional Baking:
– If you like a crunchy topping, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs and extra cheese on top, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
6. Serve:
– Serve warm and enjoy! You can top with chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Tips:
– Feel free to add vegetables like steamed broccoli or peas to the mac and cheese for added nutrition.
– You can experiment with different cheeses for different flavors.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Whole Wheat Mac and Cheese!