1 order (113 g) Macaroni & Cheese consists of 160 calories. Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that is enjoyed by many people. However, it is important to be aware of the nutritional value of this delicious dish.

In terms of nutrition, one serving of macaroni and cheese contains 9 grams of fat, 33 grams of carbs, 11 grams of protein, and 580 milligrams of sodium. It is also high in calories and cholesterol. However, it can be a good source of calcium if made with cheese that is high in this mineral.

In this article, we'll go over the calories, serving size, macros, and some tips for making healthier macaroni and cheese.

Calories in Macaroni & Cheese

As mentioned earlier, one order of macaroni and cheese contains 160 calories. However, the number of calories can vary depending on the type of pasta, cheese, and milk used in the recipe. For example, using whole milk and a higher fat cheese can increase the calorie count of the dish. If you are watching your calorie intake, you can try using low-fat milk and cheese or substituting some of the macaroni with vegetables to decrease the calorie count. Overall, it is important to be mindful of the calorie content when consuming macaroni and cheese, especially if you are trying to maintain a healthy weight.

Macaroni & Cheese Serving Size

One order of macaroni and cheese typically consists of 113 grams. However, serving sizes can vary depending on the recipe and the person's appetite. It is important to be mindful of portion sizes when consuming this dish due to its high calorie and fat content. A good rule of thumb for portion control is to use a measuring cup to portion out the macaroni and cheese or to stick to one serving size of 113 grams. By being mindful of portion sizes, you can enjoy macaroni and cheese as part of a healthy and balanced diet.

Macaroni & Cheese Carbs

One serving of macaroni and cheese contains 33 grams of carbs. The majority of the carbs come from the pasta used in the recipe. Pasta is a good source of carbohydrates, which provide the body with energy. However, if you are watching your carb intake, you can try using whole wheat pasta or substituting some of the pasta with vegetables to decrease the overall carb count of the dish. Overall, macaroni and cheese can be a good source of carbs, but it is important to be mindful of portion sizes and the type of pasta used when consuming this dish.

Macaroni & Cheese Fat

One serving of macaroni and cheese contains 9 grams of fat. The majority of the fat comes from the cheese used in the recipe. Cheese can be high in saturated fat, which can increase cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease. To make macaroni and cheese healthier, you can try using low-fat cheese or reducing the amount of cheese used in the recipe. You can also add vegetables, such as broccoli or spinach, to increase the nutritional value of the dish. By being mindful of the type and amount of cheese used in the recipe, you can enjoy macaroni and cheese as part of a healthy and balanced diet.

Macaroni & Cheese Protein

One serving of macaroni and cheese contains 11 grams of protein. The majority of the protein comes from the cheese and the pasta used in the recipe. Protein is a vital nutrient that the body needs to repair and maintain tissues. However, if you are looking to increase your protein intake, you can try adding lean protein sources, such as chicken, to the macaroni and cheese. You can also try using whole wheat pasta, which is higher in protein than regular pasta. By being mindful of the protein content of the ingredients used in the recipe, you can make macaroni and cheese a more nutritious dish.

Macaroni & Cheese Sodium

One serving of macaroni and cheese contains 580 milligrams of sodium. Sodium is an essential mineral that the body needs in small amounts. However, consuming too much sodium can increase blood pressure and the risk of heart disease. To reduce the sodium content of macaroni and cheese, you can try using low-sodium cheese and pasta, or reducing the amount of salt used in the recipe. You can also try adding flavors using herbs and spices instead of salt. By being mindful of the sodium content of the ingredients used in the recipe, you can make macaroni and cheese a healthier dish.

Macaroni & Cheese Sugar Content

One serving of macaroni and cheese contains less than 1 gram of sugar. The sugar content is minimal and comes from the carbohydrates in the pasta used in the recipe. However, some recipes for macaroni and cheese may include added sugar, such as sugar in the cheese sauce. To make macaroni and cheese a healthier dish, it is important to choose recipes that do not include added sugar. Overall, the sugar content of macaroni and cheese is negligible, and it can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet when made without added sugar.

Macaroni & Cheese Ingredients

The main ingredients in macaroni and cheese are pasta, cheese, milk, and butter. However, there are many variations on this classic dish, and the ingredients can vary depending on the recipe. To make macaroni and cheese a healthier dish, you can try using whole wheat pasta, low-fat cheese and milk, and reducing the amount of butter used in the recipe. You can also add vegetables, such as broccoli or spinach, to increase the nutritional value of the dish. By being mindful of the ingredients used in the recipe, you can make macaroni and cheese a healthier and more nutritious dish.

Macaroni & Cheese Cooking Instructions

To make macaroni and cheese, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is golden brown. Pour in the milk and whisk to combine. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Add the cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Add the cooked pasta and stir until well coated in the cheese sauce. Serve hot.

Macaroni & Cheese Health Benefits

While macaroni and cheese is not the healthiest dish, it can provide some health benefits when made with nutritious ingredients. For example, cheese is a good source of calcium, which can help build strong bones and teeth. Pasta is also a good source of carbohydrates, which provide the body with energy. To make macaroni and cheese a healthier dish, you can try using whole wheat pasta, low-fat cheese and milk, and adding vegetables to increase the nutritional value. By doing so, you can enjoy macaroni and cheese as part of a balanced and nutritious diet.