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High Protein Mac and Cheese – Creamy & Healthy Recipe


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  • Author: James Carter
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Whip up a batch of this High Protein Mac and Cheese – Creamy & Healthy Recipe for a satisfying and nutritious comfort food meal. Packed with protein and flavor, it’s a family favorite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound whole wheat pasta (or legume-based pasta)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
  • 3 cups unsweetened almond milk (or other milk of choice, warmed)
  • 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 ounces Gruyere cheese, shredded (optional)
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional protein boost and flavor enhancer)

Instructions

  1. 1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. 2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. 4. Whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook, stirring, for 1-2 minutes.
  5. 5. Gradually whisk in warmed milk until smooth and thickened.
  6. 6. Add cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and nutmeg (if using). Stir until combined and cottage cheese is mostly broken down.
  7. 7. Reduce heat to low. Stir in shredded cheddar, Gruyere (if using), and nutritional yeast (if using) until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. 8. Add drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes over low heat until just heated through.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or water for best results. For longer storage, freeze cooled mac and cheese in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months; texture may change slightly upon thawing.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: Approx. 450-550 (depending on cheese and milk choices)
  • Sugar: Approx. 5-8g
  • Sodium: Approx. 600-800mg
  • Fat: Approx. 15-25g
  • Carbohydrates: Approx. 45-55g
  • Fiber: Approx. 5-8g
  • Protein: Approx. 30-40g