High Protein Mac Cheese (Printable Version)

Creamy, nutritious mac and cheese with cottage cheese sauce for a protein-packed comfort meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 8 ounces elbow macaroni or preferred pasta

→ Sauce

02 - 1 cup cottage cheese
03 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
04 - 1/2 cup milk
05 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder
07 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

# Directions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente following package guidance. Drain thoroughly using a colander and return pasta to the pot.
02 - Combine cottage cheese, milk, garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper in a blender or with an immersion blender. Process until smooth and creamy.
03 - Pour blended cheese sauce over hot cooked pasta. Add shredded cheddar cheese.
04 - Place the pot over low heat and stir consistently with a wooden spoon or spatula for 2 to 3 minutes, until cheddar is fully melted and sauce thickens.
05 - Divide between serving bowls and present hot.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Fast to prepare only 15 minutes
  • Packed with protein for balanced meals
  • Uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand
  • Easily adaptable for gluten-free or veggie variations
02 -
  • High protein so it keeps you feeling full
  • Vegetarian and easy to adapt for gluten-free
  • Ready in just 15 minutes for fast weeknight dinners
03 -
  • Always salt your pasta water generously for best flavor
  • Never skip blending the sauce as it makes all the difference in creaminess
  • If you like a golden top you can transfer cooked mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese, bake just until bubbly and golden