Macaroni and Cheese

Good day friends! It is hard to believe how quickly the holiday season is approaching! I don't know about you, but I've been trying to watch my diet, and the thought of all the holiday fare has my waistline a little nervous! I am determined, though, to not be too mightily derailed by all the incredible temptations of the season!

It is already the time of year I start gearing up for Thanksgiving, my big meal of the year. I've been brainstorming ways to fit some of our favorites into my new way of eating. Yesterday, I got happy in the kitchen and tried out a macaroni and cheese to see if I could make it worthy of my table! It performed overwhelming well as a people pleaser and came out a winner! I wanted to share it with you, and to preserve it here so I can make it again, too!

If you are following Trim Healthy Mama, this will fall into the S meal category. I will admit, this is not a recipe one would probably want to serve often, but it will work well for special occasions. I hope you enjoy!

Macaroni and Cheese
13.2 oz Dream Field pasta
1 c sour cream
1/2 c 2% small curd cottage cheese
4 oz 1/3 less fat cream cheese
1/2 c almond milk
3 T butter
1 t sea salt
1 t ground mustard
1 t paprika
1/2 t onion powder
1/2 t garlic powder
1/4 t ground white pepper (can use black)
2-3 pinches turmeric
4.5 oz package Sargento 4 State Cheddar shredded cheese
1/4 c 4 Cheese Mexican Blend shredded cheese

Prepare noodles as directed. While those are cooking add all the ingredients except the shredded cheeses to a blender. Pulse and the blend the ingredients, stirring down sides a few time, until all the ingredients are smooth and creamy. When noodles are done, drain well. Return noodles to the pan, and pour the sauce in the blender over the cooked noodles. Place the pan over medium low to low heat and add the shredded cheeses. Stir to mix well. Continue to stir often until the mixture is warmed through and begins to bubble. Be careful not to let it burn. Remove from heat and serve while still hot.

I recommend keeping the serving size to no more than a cup and make sure there are plenty of people around to help polish it off. It is not recommended that those trying to lower his/her carb count reheat the pasta.

This recipe would also make a great base for a main meal! To make this a main dish any time of year, try stirring in taco meat, ham cubes and broccoli, chili without beans, or chicken and mixed vegetables. If you want to go a little fancy, stir in lobster! Mmm...so good and so many options!

Until we meet again, may you be blessed!