High Protein Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese

Indulge in creamy comfort with this High Protein Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese, a mouthwatering twist on the classic favorite. Packed with sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese, this dish combines velvety richness with a protein boost from ingredients like cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and unflavored protein powder—making it a satisfying and nutritious meal. The recipe begins with tender elbow macaroni coated in a silky cheese sauce, enhanced with a hint of mustard and garlic powder for extra depth of flavor. Baked to perfection with a golden, bubbly topping, this hearty mac and cheese is ready in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal family dinner or post-workout indulgence. Perfect for anyone looking to enjoy comfort food while hitting their protein goals, this dish is a must-try!

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 scoop protein powder (unflavored or cheese-flavored)
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

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

Step 3

Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.

Step 4

Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese, cottage cheese, and Greek yogurt. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.

Step 5

Add the protein powder, mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce. Stir well to combine.

Step 6

Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Stir until the macaroni is fully coated with the sauce.

Step 7

Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.

Step 8

Place the dish under a preheated broiler for about 3-5 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 9

Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1537.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2937.5

Total Fat 131.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 79.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.5g
Cholesterol 425.4mg	0%
Sodium 4215.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 252.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 9.5g	0%
Total Sugars 57.8g
Protein 180.2g	0%

Vitamin D 272.3IU	0%
Calcium 3064.4mg	0%
Iron 12.0mg	0%
Potassium 1652.1mg	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: 40.5%

Protein: 24.8%

Carbs: 34.7%