High Protein Classic Creamy Macaroni and Cheese

Boost your comfort food game with this High Protein Classic Creamy Macaroni and Cheese, a nutritious twist on a timeless favorite! Made with whole wheat elbow macaroni, a velvety blend of cheddar, Parmesan, and cottage cheese, and a surprising protein-packed boost from Greek yogurt and unflavored protein powder, this dish is perfect for fueling busy days without sacrificing indulgent flavors. The smooth and flavorful cheese sauce, enhanced with a touch of paprika, creates a luscious coating for every bite of pasta. Ready in just 35 minutes, this high-protein mac and cheese is an easy, satisfying option for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Serve it warm topped with fresh parsley for a comforting dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 6

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)

Directions

Step 1

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.

Step 2

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.

Step 3

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.

Step 4

Reduce the heat to low and fold in the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt until well blended and smooth.

Step 5

Add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until the cheeses are completely melted and incorporated.

Step 6

Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well to combine all flavors.

Step 7

Slowly sift in the unflavored or cheese-flavored protein powder, ensuring no lumps remain, and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 8

Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is well coated with the creamy cheese mixture.

Step 9

Serve the high protein macaroni and cheese warm, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1743.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3581.2

Total Fat 136.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 82.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.5g
Cholesterol 455.5mg	0%
Sodium 5862.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 333.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 21.5g	0%
Total Sugars 59.6g
Protein 269.6g	0%

Vitamin D 272.3IU	0%
Calcium 3420.1mg	0%
Iron 17.4mg	0%
Potassium 3088.9mg	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: 33.7%

Protein: 29.6%

Carbs: 36.7%