High Protein Classic Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food makeover with this **High Protein Classic Creamy Macaroni and Cheese**! Packed with wholesome ingredients like whole wheat elbow macaroni, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and an unflavored protein powder boost, this recipe transforms a beloved classic into a nutritious powerhouse. The rich, velvety cheese sauce, featuring melted cheddar and Parmesan, is elevated with a hint of paprika for added depth. Ready in just 35 minutes, this protein-rich dish is a perfect meal to fuel your day or satisfy your comfort food cravings guilt-free. Whether served as a hearty main or a flavorful side, this recipe redefines macaroni and cheese into a healthier, creamier delight.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces whole wheat elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 cup protein powder (unflavored or cheese-flavored)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute, forming a roux.
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to create a smooth, thickened sauce. Let it simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes on medium heat.
Reduce the heat to low and fold in the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt until well blended and smooth.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until the cheeses are completely melted and incorporated.
Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well to combine all flavors.
Slowly sift in the unflavored or cheese-flavored protein powder, ensuring no lumps remain, and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is well coated with the creamy cheese mixture.
Serve the high protein macaroni and cheese warm, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3581 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 136.3 g | 175% | |
| Saturated Fat | 82.0 g | 410% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 456 mg | 152% | |
| Sodium | 5862 mg | 255% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 333.8 g | 121% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 21.5 g | 77% | |
| Total Sugars | 59.6 g | ||
| Protein | 269.6 g | 539% | |
| Vitamin D | 6.8 mcg | 34% | |
| Calcium | 3420 mg | 263% | |
| Iron | 17.4 mg | 97% | |
| Potassium | 3089 mg | 66% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
