Description
Indulge in a healthier, high-protein twist on the classic comfort food. This One Pot Protein Mac utilizes blended cottage cheese and sharp cheddar to create a luxuriously creamy sauce without the need for heavy cream or complex roux. By cooking the protein pasta directly in vegetable broth, the starches naturally thicken the sauce, ensuring a perfect coating on every noodle. It is the ultimate quick, nutritious, and satisfying weeknight meal that minimizes cleanup and maximizes wellness.
Ingredients
12 oz protein pasta (chickpea or lentil based)
3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1.5 cups small curd cottage cheese
2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Place the vegetable broth and protein pasta into a large pot or deep skillet.
Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat and cook according to package directions, stirring occasionally to ensure the pasta does not stick, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
While the pasta cooks, blend the cottage cheese in a blender or food processor until completely smooth and creamy.
Reduce the heat to low once the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid has reduced to a starchy slurry.
Stir in the blended cottage cheese, grated cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.
Notes
Ensure you grate your own cheddar cheese from a block; pre-shredded cheese contains starches that prevent a smooth melt. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Leftovers store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days and can be reheated with a splash of milk or broth.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: One Pot Meals
- Method: One Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: Modern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 45mg