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Weight Watchers Mac and Cheese Donuts: A Savory Twist

Weight Watchers Mac and Cheese Donuts: A Savory Twist

Baked macaroni and cheese is shaped in a doughnut pan for six fun, savory rings with a tender cheesy center and lightly browned exterior. This recipe is portioned for dinner, lunch, or a memorable party side.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup Dry elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
  • 1 cup Reduced-fat shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup Skim or 1% milk
  • 1 Large egg
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup Plain breadcrumbs or panko
Seasonings
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon Black pepper
For the Pan
  • As needed Nonstick cooking spray

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Heat the oven to 375°F and lightly coat a six-cavity doughnut pan with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until just tender. Drain it very thoroughly and let it cool briefly.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk and egg. Stir in the cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Add the cooked macaroni and breadcrumbs to the cheese mixture. Stir until every piece of pasta is coated and the mixture looks cohesive.
  5. Divide the macaroni mixture evenly among the six doughnut-pan cavities. Press it firmly into each cavity, especially around the center openings, so the rings hold together.
  6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the tops are set and lightly browned. If desired, lightly spray the tops with cooking oil before baking to encourage extra browning.
  7. Let the donuts rest in the pan for 5–10 minutes after baking. Loosen the edges carefully with a small spatula or butter knife, then lift the rings out and serve warm.

Notes

Drain the macaroni very thoroughly and press the mixture firmly into the pan. Panko gives a crispier exterior than fine breadcrumbs. Points and nutrition vary by brand; calculate them with the exact ingredients used.