High Protein Macaroni and Cheese with Peas
Indulge in comfort and nutrition with this High Protein Macaroni and Cheese with Peas recipe, the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and wholesome ingredients. Featuring protein-packed staples like cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, shredded chicken, and sharp cheddar, this dish takes your favorite classic to a healthier level. Whole wheat macaroni and vibrant green peas add fiber and a burst of color, while a savory combination of garlic, onion, and fresh parsley enhances the flavor. Ready in just 45 minutes, this easy-to-make meal is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, offering satisfaction without sacrifice. Perfect for families or fitness enthusiasts alike, this upgraded macaroni and cheese delivers a delightful balance of indulgence and nourishment.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 8 ounces whole wheat macaroni
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cups parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the whole wheat macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic, then add them to the saucepan. Sauté for 5 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent.
In a blender, combine the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add this mixture to the saucepan with the onions and garlic, stirring well.
Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese, grated parmesan cheese, and almond milk to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the cheeses have melted and the sauce is smooth, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the frozen peas, allowing them to heat through in the sauce for 2-3 minutes.
Add the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken breast to the cheese sauce, stirring well to combine. Season with salt and black pepper.
Continue to heat everything through, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is hot and coated with the cheese sauce, about 3-4 minutes.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3050 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 128.4 g | 165% | |
| Saturated Fat | 60.0 g | 300% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 490 mg | 164% | |
| Sodium | 5521 mg | 240% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 255.8 g | 93% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 30.6 g | 109% | |
| Total Sugars | 65.8 g | ||
| Protein | 228.0 g | 456% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.6 mcg | 18% | |
| Calcium | 2764 mg | 213% | |
| Iron | 16.5 mg | 92% | |
| Potassium | 2822 mg | 60% | |
*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.
