- Use non-fat/skim milk during preparation.
- The best option is to omit the butter. You can also decrease the amount of butter the macaroni and cheese calls for by half and/or substitute reduced-fat/light (trans-fat free) margarine.
- Add chopped, fresh broccoli. You can use frozen broccoli instead, but the fresh variety lends better flavor and texture. Be generous in the amount of broccoli that you add - kids tend to overlook the fact that they are eating green vegetables when it's "hidden" in one of their favorite meals! To make it quick and easy, throw the chopped broccoli into the boiling water with the macaroni noodles - just add it towards the end of cooking since vegetables don't need to be boiled for long. Be creative and try adding other chopped veggies: green or red peppers, green onions (scallions), or even tomatoes.
- There are a few choices for meat additions. Extra-lean, all-white ground turkey breast (such as that by Jennie-O or Honeysuckle White) is the most healthy option. But we all enjoy a little hot dog with our mac 'n cheese every once in awhile. In these instances, use an all-white turkey dog, just make sure it is fat-free or low-fat (such as that by Ball Park Franks). As an alternative to hot dogs, add smoked turkey sausage or turkey kielbasa, but again, ensure the product you choose is low in fat (such as that by Jennie-O or Hillshire Farm), or try Turkey Lit'l Smokies by Hillshire Farm. Again, unless you are using ground turkey, toss the meat into the boiling water with the noodles to make it a truly easy one-dish meal.
Macaroni and cheese is a long-time favorite of children and adults alike. It's quick, easy, and tastes good. But why not make a few simple changes and additions in order to make it more healthy for yourself and the ones you love?
Copyright © 2010 Keeley Drotz, RD – TGBG Nutrition. All rights reserved.
