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
- 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. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 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. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 4. Whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook, stirring, for 1-2 minutes.
- 5. Gradually whisk in warmed milk until smooth and thickened.
- 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. 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. 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