Baked Macaroni

Baked Macaroni

Ingredients: Makes 10-12 servings

• 1 lb whole wheat elbow pasta (prepare according to directions)

• 2 tbs unsalted butter

• 3oz low fat cream cheese

• 2 - 2 1/2c unsweetened almond milk

• 1 egg

• 2 - 2 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese

• 2 tsp smoked paprika

• 2 tsp granulated garlic

• Optional: 1/8-1/4c panko crumbs

• sea salt & black pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat oven 375F. Spray baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.

2. In a bowl, mix almond milk, egg, paprika, granulated garlic, salt & pepper. Whisk together & set aside.

3. Prepare pasta according to directions. Strain & return pasta to pot.

4. Add butter and low fat cream cheese. Mix well until pasta is well coated.

5. Add 1/4c - 1/2c cheese. Mix well.

6. Pour milk mixture in small increments, stirring well until you reach preferred creamy consistency.

7. Pour half of macaroni mixture to baking dish.

8. Sprinkle with 1/2c of cheese.

9. Pour remaining macaroni and top with remaining cheese.

10. Sprinkle top with additional paprika.

11. Optional: Sprinkly top with panko crumbs for a little extra crunch. (gotta try it!)

12. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is golden brown & melted.

Nutrition Facts:

Calories: 304 | Fat: 16g | Fiber: 3g | Carbs: 24g | Protein: 17g | Sugar: 1g | Sodium: 359mg