High Protein Mac and Cheese
A creamy, high-protein version of mac and cheese that uses cottage cheese, cheddar, and optional protein powder to deliver comfort food with a muscle-building twist.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat)
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup unflavored protein powder (optional)
- 1 cup milk (any kind)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp butter (optional)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional topping)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for toasting breadcrumbs)
- Chopped chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a blender, combine cottage cheese, cheddar cheese, milk, protein powder (if using), cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Pour in the blended cheese mixture and stir until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir to combine. Heat through.
- Optional: Toast panko breadcrumbs in olive oil or butter until golden and sprinkle on top.
- Garnish with chives and serve hot.
Notes
- Chickpea or lentil pasta can further increase protein content.
- Use full-fat cottage cheese for a creamier texture.
- Adding veggies like spinach or broccoli enhances nutrition.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 379 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 646 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 37 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/high-protein-mac-and-cheese/