Recipes

Healthier Macaroni and Cheese

Nearly 1 in 5 American children are at increased risk for serious health problems because of obesity.

To help your kids maintain a healthy weight, involve them in active play and try some healthy kid-friendly recipes, like this lower-fat version of a true classic kids love. You can also involve your child in the kitchen, letting them help prepare ingredients and stir mixtures. Give them other kid-friendly tasks such as setting the table.


Ingredients

  • 2 cups dry elbow macaroni

  • 1 tsp olive oil

  • 2 cups chopped onions

  • 2 cups evaporated fat-free milk

  • 1 egg, beaten

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

  • 1 1/4 cups low-fat cheddar cheese, finely shredded


Directions

Preheat oven to 350° F. Cook macaroni according to directions—but do not add salt to the cooking water. Drain and set aside.

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions to the saucepan and sauté for about 3 minutes.

Remove from the heat and add the cooked macaroni, along with the rest of the ingredients to the saucepan and mix thoroughly.

Spray a casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. Transfer macaroni mixture into casserole dish. Bake for 25 minutes or until bubbly. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.


Makes 8 servings

Each serving contains 313 calories, 3.6 g fat, 1 g saturated fat, 0 g trans fat, 30 mg cholesterol, 230 mg sodium, 54 g carbohydrate, 2.78 g fiber, 11 g sugars, 17 g protein.

Author: Greatorex, Susan

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
user headset icon

Need Help? We're Here for You

Our Member Services team is here to help you understand your benefits, find care, or resolve concerns.

1-800-510-9132
quit smoking icon

Call NC Quitline

Need support to quit smoking, vaping, or to quit other nicotine products? You can receive support including medicines free of charge:

1-800-784-8669
car and bus icon

Schedule Transportation

Need transportation to a doctor's office, pharmacy, or other covered healthcare service? Contact us to arrange your ride.

1-800-510-9132
Stethoscope icon

Provider Directory

Need to find a provider like a Primary Care Physician, Specialist, OB/GYN, or a Psychiatrist? 

Provider Directory
Related Articles
Read article
Wellness
Barley Pilaf

This is a lovely side dish for chicken or fish.

Read article
Wellness
Stacked Fruit Salad for One

A refreshing treat of layered fruit, yogurt, and ricotta cheese.

Read article
Wellness
Pitcher-Perfect Iced Tea

You can use regular, decaffeinated, or herbal tea. Let it steep for 5 to 7 minutes.

Read article
Wellness
Garlic Walnut Sauce

This is a great sauce for meat, fish, fowl, or pasta. You can also use it as a spread for crackers or bread.