Protein Mac and Cheese Recipe
This protein mac and cheese packed 26 grams of protein per serving and is creamy, delicious, and super satisfying. I am always trying to find recipes I can make that my kids will love, and this one folks is one of those recipes. Mac and Cheese Lovers Rejoice, this cottage cheese mac and cheese is here to save dinner time!
What makes this Mac and Cheese high in protein?
The key to making this high protein mac and cheese is the sauce. Blend cottage cheese, cheddar, protein powder, milk, cornstarch, and salt in a food processor or blender. While these every day ingredients don’t seem like they are protein powerhouses, they are! Cottage cheese is a sneaky ingredient I just love cooking with as it has over 30 grams of protein per cup! I added in plain protein powder, which is optional but gives the dish an extra 30+ grams of protein.
Ingredients needed for this cottage cheese mac and cheese
- 3.5 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup unflavored protein powder (optional)
- 1 cup non-fat milk (I used Fairlife high protein milk)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup panko
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 1/4 cup chives, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
How to make protein make and cheese
- Cook the Macaroni: Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a blender combine the cottage cheese, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, protein powder (if using), and non-fat milk. Blend until smooth.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a large pot, dissolve the cornstarch in a little bit of the milk mixture. Once dissolved, add the rest of the milk mixture to the pot. Heat over medium, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the thickened cheese sauce, stirring to ensure all the pasta is coated with the creamy goodness.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small skillet, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the panko and toast until golden brown.
- Serve Top each bowl with toasted panko, shredded cheddar, and chives.
Why this recipe is a Game-Changer
This recipe takes traditional mac and cheese to a whole new level by incorporating high-protein ingredients like cottage cheese and protein powder. Using non-fat milk also keeps it lighter without compromising on creaminess. Plus, the panko topping adds the perfect crunch, making each bite an indulgent experience.
Adding protein powder might seem unconventional, but it’s a fantastic way to boost the protein content without altering the taste. This makes it an ideal meal for anyone from fitness enthusiasts to busy parents looking for a healthier dinner option that the whole family will love.
Pro Tips for the Perfect High Protein Mac and Cheese
- Customize Your Protein: If you’re not keen on using protein powder, you can easily swap it out for a high-protein Greek yogurt. Just be sure to adjust the amount of milk to keep the sauce creamy.
- Go Green: For added nutrition, consider mixing in some steamed broccoli or spinach before baking. This not only boosts the nutrient content but also adds a nice pop of color.
- Make Ahead: This mac and cheese can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven to reheat and crisp up the topping.
Other protein dinner you will love!
If you like this protein mac and cheese you will love these other protein packed meals!
Ingredients:
- 3.5 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup unflavoured protein powder (optional)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tbs cornstarch
- 1 tsp salt
Topping
- 1/2 cup panko
- 1 tbs olive oil
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chives, sliced
Instructions:
- Cook the elbow macaroni. Drain and set off to the side
- In a blender or food processor, blend together cottage cheese, cheddar cheese, milk, protein powder, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
- Pour cheese mixture into a sauce pan and bring to a boil and the reduce to a simmer. Allow the sauce to thicken for 3 minutes.
- Pour cheese sauce over noodles and stir.
- In a pan placed over medium heat, add in olive oil followed by panko crumbs. Toast until golden brown.
- Serve mac and cheese and top with toasted panko, cheddar, and chives. Enjoy that one folks!
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