This High Protein Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy delight that packs a protein punch! Made with whole grain pasta and your favorite cheese, it’s a satisfying twist on a classic dish.
I love how I can enjoy my comfort food while still getting my protein fix. Plus, I often add some veggies to sneak in extra color and nutrients. You can never go wrong with cheese! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Wheat Elbow Macaroni: This is a healthier choice that adds fiber. You could use any pasta you like, but whole wheat gives a nutty flavor. Gluten-free pasta is also an option if you need it!
Low-fat Milk: Great for a creamy texture! Unsweetened almond milk works too if you want a dairy-free option. Just check the flavors; some brands can be sweet.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar for its bold taste, and mozzarella for creaminess. If you’re looking for less fat, try reduced-fat cheese. For a twist, mix in some pepper jack for a spicy kick!
Cottage Cheese and Greek Yogurt: These both boost protein levels and smooth out the sauce. No cottage cheese? Use ricotta instead, or skip it if you prefer a lighter cheese mix!
What’s the Best Way to Make a Creamy Cheese Sauce?
The cheese sauce is where the magic happens! Making it creamy and smooth is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Begin with a roux. Melt butter and stir in flour for about a minute.
- Slowly add the milk while whisking. This helps prevent lumps and lets the sauce thicken nicely.
- After your sauce thickens, take it off the heat before adding cheese. This prevents the cheese from getting grainy.
Always stir until everything is melted and combined for a silky texture. Enjoy your delicious, high-protein mac and cheese!
How to Make High Protein Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz whole wheat elbow macaroni
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1 cup low-fat milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese (for added protein and creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Topping (Optional):
- 1/4 cup whole wheat bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (for bread crumb topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Making this High Protein Mac and Cheese will take you about 15 minutes for preparation and about 10-12 minutes for baking if you choose to add the bread crumb topping. Total time is roughly 30 minutes, perfect for a quick yet hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the whole wheat elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in the all-purpose flour using a whisk, and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux. This helps to thicken the sauce.
3. Whisk in the Milk:
Slowly pour in the low-fat milk (or almond milk) while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add the Cheeses and Seasonings:
Once your sauce has thickened, remove it from heat. Add in the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir everything together until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is nice and smooth. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
5. Combine and Prepare for Baking:
Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring all the pasta is well-coated. If you’re opting for the crispy topping, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, combine the whole wheat bread crumbs with olive oil or melted butter. Spread the mac and cheese into an oven-safe dish, then sprinkle the bread crumb mixture evenly on top.
6. Bake and Serve:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the topping is golden and crispy. Once it’s done, feel free to let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious, high-protein mac and cheese!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the whole wheat elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times, as they may vary.
What Can I Substitute for Cottage Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, ricotta works well as a substitute. You can also simply omit it and add a bit more cheese to maintain creaminess.
How Can I Store Leftover Mac and Cheese?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add steamed broccoli, spinach, or diced tomatoes to boost the nutrition. Just fold them in when you combine the macaroni with the cheese sauce!
