Description
A delicious and healthier twist on classic mac & cheese using spiralized zucchini noodles. This recipe features a creamy cheddar cheese sauce enhanced with mustard and chili powder, combining comfort food satisfaction with a light, low-carb alternative.
Ingredients
Scale
Zucchini Noodles
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 medium zucchini (spiralized)
Cheese Sauce
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp all purpose flour
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 tsp mustard powder
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 tsp chili powder
- salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook Zucchini Noodles: Add olive oil to a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the spiralized zucchini noodles and cook until they release water and become tender but still retain a slight crispness. Turn off the heat, drain the noodles well, and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Make Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and continue whisking until a smooth roux forms without any lumps.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: Gradually add heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, mustard powder, and chili powder to the roux. Bring the saucepan to medium heat and whisk continuously until the cheese completely melts and the sauce thickens into a smooth, creamy consistency. Taste and season with salt as needed.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked zucchini noodles in the cheese sauce until they are fully coated. Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy mac & cheese at its best.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the zucchini noodles to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Drying the zucchini noodles after cooking helps avoid a watery cheese sauce.
- For a lower fat version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though sauce may be less rich.
- Feel free to add herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor.
- This dish is best served fresh; leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Zucchini noodles, Mac and cheese, Low carb, Cheddar cheese sauce, Healthy comfort food, Spiralized vegetables
