High Protein Classic Baked Mac & Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food makeover with this **High Protein Classic Baked Mac & Cheese**—a hearty twist on a timeless favorite. This recipe combines whole wheat elbow macaroni, creamy cottage cheese, tangy Greek yogurt, and lean diced chicken breast for a protein-packed dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor. A velvety cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and Parmesan hugs every bite, while a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping delivers the perfect finishing touch. With just 25 minutes of prep and wholesome ingredients, this baked mac and cheese is an irresistible, family-friendly meal that’s as nutritious as it is satisfying. Ideal for weeknight dinners, post-workout fuel, or comforting leftovers, it’s the perfect balance of indulgence and health.

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:25 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 8 ounces whole wheat elbow macaroni
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup skim milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
• 0.5 cup bread crumbs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2

Cook the whole wheat elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.

Step 4

Gradually whisk in the skim milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth.

Step 6

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and slowly add the cheese sauce mixture, stirring continuously to incorporate.

Step 7

Add the cooked macaroni and diced chicken breast into the bowl and mix everything until the pasta is well coated.

Step 8

Transfer the macaroni mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 9

In a small bowl, combine bread crumbs and olive oil until crumbs are moist. Sprinkle the bread crumbs evenly over the macaroni mixture.

Step 10

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.

Step 11

Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your high-protein baked mac and cheese!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1679.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3450.1

Total Fat 156.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 82.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.2g
Cholesterol 971.3mg	0%
Sodium 5616.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 271.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 17.1g	0%
Total Sugars 46.6g
Protein 237.9g	0%

Vitamin D 203.4IU	0%
Calcium 2908.3mg	0%
Iron 16.4mg	0%
Potassium 2212.1mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 40.8%

Protein: 27.6%

Carbs: 31.6%