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Mac And Cheese

Mac And Cheese — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips

Mac and cheese photo

Listonic Team

September 4, 2024

A beloved comfort food, mac and cheese is versatile and can be enriched with various ingredients for added nutrition. Dive into the impact of different cheeses and pastas, and gather tips on how to best store leftovers to preserve flavor and safety.
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Mac and cheese nutrients

Check the detailed nutritional values of mac and cheese, including information such as calories, fats, carbohydrates, and proteins per 100 grams of the product.

Nutrition facts

Amount per 100 g

Calories

🔥 222 kcal

Nutrition per: 100 g% Daily Value*
Carbs25 g9.09%
Fiber1 g3.57%
Sugars3 g6%
Glycemic Index64 -
Protein10 g20%
Sodium474 mg20.61%
Total Fat10 g12.82%

*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Among other things, here's what makes mac and cheese stand out:

10 g

🧀 Good Protein Content

3 g

🍏 Low Sugar Content

Mac and cheese facts & tips

😋
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food, originating from England in the 18th century.
📦
Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use within three to five days. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container for up to three months.

Health benefits

Find out how mac and cheese can support your overall wellness and vitality.
  • Provides sustained energy from carbohydrates in pasta, making it a good source of fuel for the body and brain.
  • Rich in calcium from cheese, which supports strong bones and teeth.
  • Contains protein from cheese and milk, supporting muscle growth and repair.
  • Comforting and satisfying, making it a popular choice for emotional well-being.

Health risks

Be aware of the risks tied to mac and cheese.
  • High fat content particularly in mac and cheese made with butter, cream, and cheese, which can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease when consumed frequently.
  • High sodium content in many commercial or boxed mac and cheese products, which can contribute to hypertension and increased cardiovascular risks.
  • High calorie content which can contribute to weight gain if consumed frequently or in large portions, particularly as a comfort food.
  • Low nutrient density as mac and cheese is typically made from refined pasta and cheese, offering limited vitamins or minerals compared to whole food options.
  • Potential for artificial additives such as preservatives, flavorings, or colorings in some commercial mac and cheese products, which may cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.
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How to choose mac and cheese

Mac and cheese should have a creamy consistency, with the pasta evenly coated in a rich, cheesy sauce. The cheese should be melted thoroughly, without any oil separation.

Avoid mac and cheese that looks dry or has a crusty top layer, as this can indicate overcooking or poor quality. Packages that are torn or not properly sealed should also be avoided, as they may affect the product's taste and safety.

How to choose mac and cheese
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How to store mac and cheese

Mac and cheese should be stored in the refrigerator, preferably in an airtight container. Refrigeration keeps it fresh and tasty for up to three days. Proper storage maintains its creamy texture.

Air exposure can cause mac and cheese to dry out. Avoid leaving it uncovered, and always reseal the container tightly. Reheating with a little milk can restore its creaminess. Proper storage ensures it remains delicious and ready to enjoy.

✅ Extra Tip

For an added flavor boost, sprinkle some grated cheese on top before reheating to enhance the creaminess and taste.

How long does it last?

Mac and cheese can last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator once prepared. For longer storage, mac and cheese can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Proper storage helps maintain its creamy texture and flavor.

What to do with leftovers?

Leftover mac and cheese can be used in a variety of comforting and creative dishes. Reheat it and serve with bacon, breadcrumbs, or extra cheese for a quick meal, or mix it into a casserole with vegetables and meat for added flavor. Mac and cheese is also great when used as a filling for stuffed peppers or baked potatoes.

Use mac and cheese in a mac and cheese pie by layering it with pastry and baking until golden, or mix it into a mac and cheese fritter by forming the mac and cheese into balls and frying until crispy. If you have a lot of mac and cheese, consider making a batch of mac and cheese bites by pressing the mixture into muffin tins and baking until set. Mac and cheese can also be used as a topping for pizza or flatbreads, or mixed into a grilled cheese sandwich with extra cheese and bread. For a quick snack, enjoy mac and cheese with a drizzle of hot sauce or ketchup, or mix it into a bowl of scrambled eggs for a comforting breakfast.

👨‍⚕️️  Medical disclaimer

The content on this website is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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