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Protein Mac and Cheese Recipe

Protein Mac and Cheese Recipe

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4.9 from 68 reviews

This protein-packed mac and cheese is a guilt-free twist on the classic comfort food, delivering 45 grams of protein and just 548 calories per generous serving. Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, it uses protein pasta, Greek yogurt, and low-fat cheese for a healthy yet indulgent meal perfect for meal prep, busy weekdays, or feeding a hungry family.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings (about 1 ¼ cups per serving)

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 13 oz (375 g) protein pasta

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tablespoon (30 g) butter (dairy or non-dairy)
  • 2 tablespoon (30 g) flour
  • 2 cup (240 g) milk (dairy or non-dairy)
  • 3 ½ cups (280 g) cheddar cheese, shredded (low-fat)
  • ⅓ cup (85 g) Greek yogurt

Seasoning

  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

Optional Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the protein pasta and cook according to the package directions. Avoid overcooking—drain the pasta a minute early for best texture.
  2. Make the Roux: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Gradually add flour while whisking to form a smooth paste (roux). Cook and whisk until the roux turns light brown and toasted, about 1–2 minutes.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: Slowly whisk in the milk, then add salt, pepper, and paprika. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and the roux is fully incorporated. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce simmers and thickens.
  4. Incorporate Dairy and Cheese: Reduce heat to low, stir in Greek yogurt until blended, then add shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and creamy.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Stir in the drained pasta and toss to coat with cheese sauce. Alternatively, pour the sauce over the pasta in a separate pot and mix well.
  6. Serve or Bake (Optional): Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. For a crispy top, transfer to an oven-safe dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) uncovered for 30 minutes. Broil for an additional 3–5 minutes until golden and bubbling.

Notes

  • For a crispy baked top, transfer to an oven-safe dish, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes, and broil for 3–5 minutes.
  • Top with crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
  • Use dairy or non-dairy butter and milk to suit your dietary needs.
  • This recipe works great for meal prep and reheats well.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free protein pasta and a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main-course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: High Protein

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 260 g (about 1 ¼ cups)
  • Calories: 548
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 834 mg
  • Fat: 13 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 56 g
  • Fiber: 10 g
  • Protein: 45 g
  • Cholesterol: 29 mg

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/protein-mac-and-cheese-recipe/