This High Protein Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy dish with a healthy twist! It’s packed with protein to keep you feeling full and satisfied, making it perfect for lunch or dinner.
Who knew comfort food could be this good for you? I love how easy it is to whip up, and I sometimes add veggies to sneak in some extra goodness. You’ll want to make this again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
High-Protein Elbow Macaroni: Chickpea or lentil-based pasta works great here. If you can’t find them, regular whole wheat pasta is a good alternative for added fiber and protein. I prefer the taste and texture of chickpea pasta, but it might require a little more cooking time.
Chicken: This ingredient boosts protein even more. If you’re vegetarian, consider using cooked quinoa or tofu instead. You can stir both in at the same time as the macaroni for an excellent protein source!
Broccoli: Fresh or frozen florets add a nice crunch and nutrients. If you’re not a fan, feel free to swap in spinach or peas instead. Both blend well with the cheese sauce.
Greek Yogurt: This gives creaminess and protein. If you’re dairy-free, unsweetened coconut yogurt works nicely, but you may miss some tanginess. I’ve used both, and both yield delicious results!
Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings great flavor, but you can use your favorite cheese. I like mixing in a bit of pepper jack for a kick! If you want to reduce calories, look for low-fat options.
How Do You Make a Creamy Cheese Sauce Without Clumps?
Creating a smooth cheese sauce is all about technique! Focus on these steps:
- First, make a roux by cooking flour with the onion and garlic mixture. This helps thicken without clumping.
- When adding milk, whisk continuously to avoid lumps. I recommend using a whisk for best results!
- Keep the heat low when adding cheese. Stir gently, letting it melt before adding more. If the sauce gets too hot, the cheese can become stringy.
- Finally, adding Greek yogurt at low heat adds creaminess and makes it silky smooth!
These methods will help you achieve the perfect cheese sauce every time. Enjoy your cooking!
High Protein Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Protein:
- 8 ounces high-protein elbow macaroni (like chickpea or lentil-based pasta)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced (optional for extra protein)
Vegetables:
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed or lightly sautéed
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-fat milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (for creaminess and protein boost)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or chickpea flour (to thicken sauce)
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This High Protein Mac and Cheese will take about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a delicious meal any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the high-protein macaroni according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain it and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s nice and fragrant!
3. Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This will create a roux, which will help thicken your cheese sauce.
4. Create the Cheese Sauce:
Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure to keep it lump-free. Continue to stir as the mixture thickens up for about 3-5 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and mix in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella cheese, Greek yogurt, and Dijon mustard. Stir until everything is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Flavor it Up:
Season your cheese sauce with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. This is where the magic happens, giving it that extra zing!
6. Combine Everything:
Add in the cooked macaroni, chicken breast (if you’re using it), and steamed broccoli to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine everything evenly while heating it through.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm High Protein Mac and Cheese hot, and feel free to garnish it with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar and some freshly ground black pepper for a nice finish!
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and protein-packed mac and cheese!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While high-protein elbow macaroni is recommended, you can use any pasta you prefer. Whole wheat pasta, brown rice pasta, or even gluten-free alternatives work great too. Just adjust cooking times as needed!
Is It Possible to Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken. You can also add extra vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients!
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Sure! You can make the cheese sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just combine and heat when you’re ready to serve!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to keep it creamy.