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High Protein Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★

4 from 26 reviews

This High Protein Mac and Cheese recipe offers a nutritious twist on the classic comfort food by using cottage cheese and cheddar to boost protein content. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz elbows pasta (Jovial Brown Rice Elbows Pasta recommended)

Cheese Sauce

  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ⅓ cup milk of choice
  • 1 tablespoon arrowroot or cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon paprika
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Prepare the elbows pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside to cool slightly.
  2. Blend Ingredients: In a blender, combine the cottage cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, arrowroot (or cornstarch), garlic powder, sea salt, paprika, and ground black pepper. Blend on high speed until you achieve a smooth, creamy sauce.
  3. Heat the Sauce: Pour the blended cheese sauce into a large sauté pan and place it over medium-low heat. Cook the sauce for 4-5 minutes, stirring regularly to prevent it from sticking or burning, until it thickens slightly.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly into the pan with the thickened cheese sauce. Stir well until the pasta is evenly coated. Taste and add any additional seasoning if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your high-protein mac and cheese!

Notes

  • Use arrowroot or cornstarch as a thickener; arrowroot is a great gluten-free option.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute with vegan cheddar and a plant-based milk, although protein content may vary.
  • Stir the sauce constantly while heating to avoid scorching and ensure even thickening.
  • Try adding steamed vegetables like broccoli or peas for added nutrition and texture.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Keywords: high protein mac and cheese, healthy mac and cheese, cottage cheese mac and cheese, quick mac and cheese, easy dinner recipe

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