Description
Upgrade your comfort food with this macro-friendly Protein Mac and Cheese. By blending high-protein cottage cheese with sharp cheddar, we create a velvety, restaurant-quality sauce without a heavy flour roux. Using nutrient-dense pulse-based pasta provides a satisfying nutty chew and fiber boost, turning a classic favorite into a high-protein, balanced meal perfect for busy weeknights or fitness-focused lifestyles. It is a creamy, indulgent, and satisfying dish that requires no processed mixes.
Ingredients
12 oz protein-based pasta (chickpea or lentil shells)
1.5 cups cottage cheese (smooth curd)
1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
0.5 cup milk
1 tsp garlic powder
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp black pepper
Optional: chopped chives for garnish
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the protein pasta according to package directions until al dente.
While the pasta cooks, place the cottage cheese, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into a blender.
Blend the cottage cheese mixture on high speed until completely smooth and aerated.
Drain the cooked pasta and return it to the warm pot over low heat.
Pour the blended cottage cheese sauce over the pasta and stir gently to coat.
Add the grated sharp cheddar cheese in handfuls, stirring continuously until melted and the sauce is velvety.
Check consistency and add a splash more milk if the sauce is too thick.
Remove from heat and serve immediately while hot, garnished with chives if desired.
Notes
For best melting results, always grate your cheddar from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese, which contains starch coatings. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: High Protein Dinners
- Method: Boiling and Blending
- Cuisine: Modern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 45mg