High Protein Mac and Cheese Recipe
A creamy and nutritious high-protein mac and cheese made with chickpea or lentil-based pasta, cheddar cheese, and Greek yogurt for a delicious and satisfying twist on the classic comfort food.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta
- 8 oz package high-protein pasta shells or elbows (e.g., chickpea or lentil-based pasta)
For the Cheese Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ cup cream or milk of choice
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the high-protein pasta according to package directions, aiming for al dente by slightly reducing cooking time. Reserve a small amount of the pasta water before draining. Do not rinse the pasta to preserve starch for sauce adhesion.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low-medium heat. Add the cream or milk and warm until just simmering, then reduce heat to low. Slowly add shredded cheddar cheese while stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth. Fold in the Greek yogurt to create a creamy texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, gradually mix in reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta into the cheese sauce and toss well to ensure every piece is coated evenly. Warm the combined dish over low heat for a few minutes if necessary to maintain heat.
- Serve: Serve the mac and cheese immediately for best flavor and texture. Enjoy your high-protein comfort meal!
Notes
- Using chickpea or lentil pasta boosts the protein content compared to traditional wheat pasta.
- Greek yogurt adds creaminess and extra protein without overwhelming the cheese flavor.
- You can substitute cream with your preferred type of milk for a lighter sauce.
- Reserve pasta water is essential to adjusting sauce consistency and helps the sauce stick to the pasta better.
- Serve immediately as the sauce may thicken upon standing.
Keywords: mac and cheese, high protein, chickpea pasta, lentil pasta, healthy comfort food, Greek yogurt mac and cheese
Find it online: https://tastygenius.com/high-protein-mac-and-cheese-recipe/
