This High Protein Mac and Cheese is a creamy and cheesy twist on the classic dish! Packed with filling ingredients, it will satisfy your hunger while tasting amazing.
Who knew comfort food could be healthy? I love making this when I need something quick and tasty. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra protein after a workout!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is a classic for mac and cheese, but you can swap it for any pasta you like. Gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta are good alternatives if you have dietary needs.
Cottage Cheese: Low-fat cottage cheese is fantastic for adding protein. If you dislike cottage cheese, you can use silken tofu blended until smooth for a non-dairy option.
Milk: I prefer low-fat milk for creaminess, but unsweetened almond milk works well too, giving it a slightly nutty flavor. Other non-dairy milks like oat or soy can also be used.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor. If you’re looking for a twist, try adding a bit of pepper jack for some spice or a mix of mozzarella and gouda for extra creaminess.
How Do I Make a Smooth Cheese Sauce Without Lumps?
Getting a smooth cheese sauce can seem tricky, but with the right steps, it’s easy! Here’s how:
- Start by melting the butter over medium heat, then quickly whisk in the flour to form a roux. Make sure to keep stirring to prevent lumps.
- When adding the blended cottage cheese and milk mixture, do it slowly while whisking continuously. This helps to combine everything smoothly.
- Once heated, add the cheese gradually while stirring until melted completely. This prevents clumping and results in a creamy sauce.
These steps make sure you can enjoy that perfectly smooth and cheesy mac and cheese every time!
High Protein Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or any pasta of choice)
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1 ½ cups low-fat cottage cheese
- 1 cup low-fat milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This High Protein Mac And Cheese takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing and cooking the pasta and cheese sauce, and then you’ll have a delicious dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the macaroni according to the package instructions until it is al dente (cooked but still firm). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese and low-fat milk. Blend until the mixture is perfectly smooth and creamy. Set this aside; it will be your cheese base.
3. Make the Roux:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes. Keep stirring to create a roux and avoid lumps.
4. Create the Cheese Sauce:
Gradually add the blended cottage cheese and milk mixture to the roux, whisking continuously as you pour. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take around 3-5 minutes. Remove the saucepan from heat at this point.
5. Add the Cheese and Seasoning:
Now, stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the thickened sauce. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
6. Combine with Pasta:
Pour the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and stir well, ensuring every piece of pasta gets a good coating of that creamy cheese goodness.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the macaroni and cheese in bowls. For a finishing touch, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top along with fresh chopped parsley for color.
8. Optional Broiling:
If you want a crispy cheese topping, you can place the bowls under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
Enjoy your creamy, delicious High Protein Mac And Cheese! It’s a comforting meal that fuels your body without compromising on taste.
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any gluten-free pasta of your choice. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as gluten-free pasta can sometimes have different cooking times.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual servings or warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened up too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, you can! Substitute the cottage cheese with blended silken tofu for creaminess, and use vegan cheese in place of the cheddar. You can also replace the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and use non-dairy milk.
What Other Cheeses Can I Use?
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack can add unique flavors. Just remember to use a cheese that melts well for the best texture.