With Mac & Cheese trending on TikTok, it's clear that this classic dish is making a major comeback. However, many of these viral recipes are loaded with unnecessary calories, saturated fats, and processed ingredients that don’t align with a balanced lifestyle. But as an ultimate comfort food—warm, creamy, and undeniably satisfying—this dish holds a special place in many hearts. But would you believe us if we told you that you can enjoy this rich, gooey, and delicious treat while staying on track with your health goals?
At Herbal Magic, we believe that no food is off-limits and there’s always a way to enjoy your favorite dishes while on a weight loss journey. In this Wellness Article, we share a few tips for enjoying Mac & Cheese on a weight loss journey and a healthier version our own Coaches love!
Healthy Mac & Cheese Tips
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Choose Lighter Cheese:
Many cheeses, including mozzarella, colby jack, and cheddar, come in light versions that offer the same great taste with less fat and fewer calories. When mixed together, you won’t even notice the difference!
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Make A Lighter Sauce:
Instead of heavy cream, use evaporated milk or a flour-based roux for a creamy texture without excess fat.
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Boost the Nutrition
Add steamed vegetables like broccoli and spinach, or mix in lean protein like grilled chicken or tuna to increase fiber and protein, making your Mac & Cheese more satisfying and nutritious.
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Watch Your Portions:
Mac & Cheese is best enjoyed as a snack or side dish rather than a full meal. Keeping portions in check allows you to indulge while maintaining a balanced diet.
Our Healthier Take on Mac & Cheese
We’ve crafted a version that keeps the creamy, cheesy goodness while being a smarter choice for those looking to manage their weight.
Our recipe includes a carefully selected blend of cheeses, a creamy base made from evaporated milk, and warm, savory spices like smoked paprika and garlic powder to elevate the flavour. Plus, we’ve portioned it in a way that fits into a balanced diet and our Weight Loss Plan allotment system, making it a perfect side dish or snack option!
Our Light Mac & Cheese Recipe makes 18 servings, so you can enjoy a comforting, cheesy bite while staying on track. Give it a try:
Ingredients:
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Once water is boiling add pasta and cook according to package instructions.
3. Once the pasta is cooked, set it aside.
4. Once the skillet is hot, add the butter, and stir in the flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Then, slowly add the milk, evaporated milk, dijon mustard, stirring constantly for 5 to 7 minutes until it thickens.
6. Once the sauce is thicker and creamy, remove the skillet from heat and stir in all the cheese until it's melted.
7. Once you have the cheese sauce made, add in the cooked pasta and toss everything together.
8. Once all the noodles are coated in the sauce, serve it, and dig in!
Tips For This Recipe:
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Do Not Use Pre-Shredded Cheese:
While it may be tempting to grab a bag of pre-shredded cheese for convenience, these products often contain anti-caking agents that prevent the cheese from melting smoothly. If you want that perfect, gooey, and creamy texture, take a few extra minutes to shred your own cheese—it makes a world of difference!
- Let It Rest, Let It Thicken:
At first, the pasta sauce may seem really runny, but after you toss the pasta in the sauce let it sit for a bit. The sauce will thicken around the noodles as it cools!
Why Our Mac & Cheese Is Better Than the Viral TikTok Version
TikTok has been buzzing with viral Mac & Cheese recipes that often feature an excessive amount of cheese, butter, and heavy cream. While these versions might look mouthwatering, they’re not the best choice for those looking to lose weight or manage their health.
Here’s why our recipe is a better option:
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Balanced Ingredients:
We use evaporated milk for creaminess without excess fat and starch-based thickening instead of heavy cream. -
Portion-Friendly:
Our servings are designed to fit within a structured meal plan, making it easier to enjoy without overindulging. -
Mindful Cheese Choices: We include a variety of cheeses that deliver flavour while offering flexibility in selecting lighter options.
Enjoy the Comfort Foods You Love—The Healthy Way
We believe in enjoying all the foods you love—but in a way that supports your health goals. Mac & Cheese doesn’t have to be off-limits! With the right ingredients, portions, and a few simple tweaks, you can indulge in this creamy classic without straying from your weight management journey.
So, next time you’re craving a comforting, cheesy dish, give our Light Mac & Cheese Recipe a try—you won’t miss the extra calories, but you’ll definitely savour every bite!
Want more healthy and delicious recipes? Check out some of our other healthy recipes!
