This fontina mac and cheese is for you if you love mac and cheese but are trying to watch your weight. It’s as creamy and delicious as the original, but with a lot fewer calories thanks to the use of skim milk and low-fat cheese in its preparation. You can have it any night of the week because it’s so simple to prepare.
Where can I find Fontina cheese?
Fontina cheese is a speciality of the Italian region of Valle d’Aosta. This cheese has a nutty flavour and an elastic, firm texture. Fontina cheese has been produced continuously since the 12th century, and its production today remains faithful to the method established then. The cheese is produced using at least 45% fat from whole cow’s milk. Fontina cheese is versatile and can be used in a wide variety of dishes. It’s a staple on many pizza menus.
Advantages of a Less-Fat Macaroni and Cheese Diet
We can all agree that macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. Let’s be honest, though; it’s not the healthiest choice. What if we told you that you could still enjoy all the deliciousness of your go-to meal without feeling guilty about it?
Our reduced-calorie fontina mac and cheese is just as satisfying as the regular version. The addition of crisp vegetables also makes this dish extremely healthy. You can eat your fill of this traditional comfort food without feeling guilty about it.

Lightened up fontina mac and cheese
Ingredients
- Dry elbow macaroni: 1 cup
- Reduce olive oil by 1 tablespoon
- a quarter cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of low-fat milk
- Salt 1/2 teaspoon
- a quarter of a teaspoon of pepper
- 8 ounces of shredded fontina cheese about 2 cups
Instructions
- Turn the oven temperature up to 350 degrees F.
- Macaroni noodles should be prepared in water that has been brought to a boil, as directed on the package. When they're done cooking, drain the liquid.
- Butter should be melted in a large saucepan over low to medium heat. Add the flour and salt and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
- Add the milk and cook over low heat, whisking frequently, until the mixture thickens. Five minutes is about right for this.
- Turn off the cooker and add the melted fontina cheese after you've removed the pan from the heat. Toss in the macaroni that has already been cooked and stir until it is covered in the cheese sauce.
- Put the ingredients in a baking dish and, if you like, top with additional shredded cheese (this is optional). Put it in the oven and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Keep it sizzling!
Instructions for Making the Best Skinny Fontina Mac and Cheese
Everyone is aware that the traditional dish of macaroni and cheese contains a lot of fat and calories. That said, you don’t have to completely cut out your go-to stodge. Fontina mac and cheese can be made healthier with just a few substitutions. Some suggestions for making the best healthier fontina mac and cheese:
1. Replace whole milk with skim milk. Reduced fat and calorie content can be achieved without compromising taste in this way.
2. Fontina cheese with a lower fat content should be used. You can’t tell the difference in flavour, but you’ll cut some fat and calories out of your diet.
3. Add some steamed broccoli or other vegetables to your mac and cheese for some additional nutrition and fibre. Adding more substance to the dish in this way can help you feel full on less food.
4. Swap out white pasta for whole wheat. This substitution won’t drastically alter the flavour or texture of your meal while adding more nutrients and fibre.
5. Finally, before baking, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top of your healthier fontina mac and cheese for a crunchy topping that the whole family will love.
Suggestions for Plating
If you’re watching your weight or just want to eat less, this reduced-fat fontina mac and cheese is the way to go. You can eat it plain or with some of these suggested additions:
Spicy mushroom sauté
Onions cooked in caramel
Refreshing Herbs (thyme, rosemary, oregano, etc.)
Tomatoes that have been baked
Pancetta or bacon, crumbled
Chopped chives or scallions
Conclusion
Comfort food lovers will love this recipe for lighter Fontina Mac and Cheese. This healthier take on the classic comfort food is perfect for any occasion, whether you need a last-minute dinner idea or a dish to bring to a potluck. Enjoy all the flavour of this classic dish without worrying about breaking any diet resolutions come 2023 with just a few easy adjustments.