There is no reason to grab a blue box of macaroni and cheese when you have a recipe that is as easy as this and results in something SO much better. This recipe is an updated version of the stovetop macaroni and cheese I created for my first Eat What You Love Cookbook, and dare I say I like it even better? In this version, I have added diced green chilies. The addition of the lovely green chili taste is subtle in the finished dish (with no addition of spiciness or heat), they add an extra layer of flavor that is delectable.
To add more healthy heft feel free to add broccoli. When using fresh, add 3 cups of florets to the simmering pasta water the last 3 minutes of cooking. For frozen, thaw and cook, pat dry, and stir in with the chiles.
8 ounces dry large macaroni shells (or other pasta)
3-cups fresh broccoli florets (optional)
3/4 cup low-fat evaporated milk
1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon cornstarch
3/4 teaspoon dry mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt with parsley
1 1/4 cups reduced-fat shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1 (4-ounce) can diced mild green chiles (optional)
1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Be careful not to overcook. (If adding fresh broccoli add to the simmering water for the last 3 minutes).
2. While the pasta is cooking, in a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the next five ingredients (evaporated milk through garlic salt). Whisk and cook for 2 minutes, or until the mixture comes to a low boil and thickens. Turn off the heat, and stir in 3/4 cup of cheese. When smooth, stir in the green chiles.
3. Drain the cooked pasta, leaving it just slightly wet, and add it back to the pot. Immediately stir in the cheese sauce and last 1/2 cup cheese, and stir well until the pasta is creamy and well coated.
NUTRITION INFORMATION PER SERVING: (3/4 cup) Calories 220 | Carbohydrate 33g (Sugars 5g) | Total Fat 5g (Sat Fat 2.5g) | Protein 13g | Fiber 2g | Cholesterol 10mg | Sodium 280mg | Food Exchanges: 2 Starch, 1 Lean Meat | Carbohydrate Choices: 2 | Weight Watcher Point Comparisons: Green 6, Blue 6, Purple 6
