Comfort Food, Re-Created: Creamy Mac and Cheese

Like many, mac and cheese is one of my favorite comfort foods. It's one of those decadent meals that takes you back to childhood....that blissful time when you neither thought nor cared about calories. No lie, mac and cheese is a high calorie dish, especially the way many restaurants prepare it (read: extra butter, extra cheese). I created this homemade version to be more health conscious yet still have that warm, creamy, comforting taste we all know and love.

But can macaroni and cheese be considered healthy? When eaten in moderation and prepared in a healthier way, the answer is yes. I can just hear it now....what about the CARBS?! Relax, don't worry. We need carbs. In fact, they're our bodies primary source of energy. However, when we overeat calories (which can come from carbs, protein or fat), that's when the weight problems begin.

So, mac and cheese can totally be on your menu once in a while. I limit my serving to about 1/2 to 3/4 cup and pair it with a side of steamed veggies to make the meal more complete.

Creamy Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried noodles (sub whole wheat noodles for extra nutrition)
• 1 tsp smart balance (or alternative heart-healthy butter spread)
• Pinch of flour
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese (low-fat would work well too)
• About 1/4 cup low-fat milk
• Salt to taste

Preparaion

Boil noodles in saucepan. Once tender, strain and set aside. In saucepan, melt butter and add a pinch of flour to create a roux which helps thicken the sauce. Mix until well combined, then add the milk, cheddar and cream cheese. Once the cheese sauce is heated and well combined, add cooked pasta. Stir until noodles are coated and enjoy!