Protein Mac And Cheese Recipe

Creamy, cheesy, and protein-packed! This Protein Mac and Cheese blends cottage cheese and cheddar for a quick, delicious twist on the classic comfort food.

Let’s face it, mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. It’s creamy, cheesy, and pure bliss in a bowl. 

But what if I told you that you could have all that indulgent goodness and give it a protein-packed twist? Meet Protein Mac and Cheese—the dish that combines everything you love about the classic with a little extra nutritional power.

This isn’t your average bowl of pasta drowning in cheese (not that there’s anything wrong with that). We’re stepping things up with a secret ingredient: cottage cheese. 

Before you raise an eyebrow, hear me out. When blended, cottage cheese becomes creamy, smooth, and the perfect base for a velvety cheese sauce. 

Combine that with sharp cheddar, milk, and a hint of garlic powder, and you’ve got a mac and cheese that’s just as comforting as the original but with a sneaky protein boost.

Whether you’re feeding a family, looking for a post-workout meal, or just craving something cheesy with a little extra staying power, this recipe has your back. It’s quick, easy, and hits the sweet spot between indulgence and nutrition. 

So, grab your favorite pasta and let’s dive into a bowl of cheesy, protein-packed perfection that’s as good for your taste buds as it is for your goals.

If you love a good old cottage cheese recipe you may also enjoy Cottage Cheese Rose Pasta Sauce or my Cottage Cheese Lava Cake.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS HIGH PROTEIN MAC AND CHEESE

• Comfort Food with a Twist: All the creamy, cheesy goodness of classic mac and cheese, with a protein-packed upgrade.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute cravings.
• Nutritious and Satisfying: Cottage cheese adds a boost of protein without compromising on flavor or creaminess.
• Customizable: Add veggies, extra seasonings, or even chicken for a dish tailored to your taste.
• Kid and Adult Approved: Picky eaters won’t even notice the hidden protein, making it a win for everyone.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
• Guilt-Free Indulgence: Satisfy your cheesy cravings while sticking to your nutritional goals.

MAIN INGREDIENTS YOU NEED FOR THE COTTAGE CHEESE MAC AND CHEESE

You will need the following simple ingredients listed below to make this great recipe (the exact measurements, nutrition information and full recipe are in the printable recipe card below):

• Elbow macaroni – can use high protein pasta or regular pasta of your choice such as chickpea pasta, elbow noodles, whole wheat noodles, etc.
• Whole milk – can use milk of choice such as skim milk, soy milk, heavy cream, etc.
• Cottage cheese – high quality cottage cheese such as Good Culture.
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Cornstarch
• Sea salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Optional – greek yogurt, onion powder, olive oil, cream cheese, parmesan cheese, nutritional yeast, protein powder, silken tofu, etc.

HOW TO MAKE THE HIGH PROTEIN COTTAGE CHEESE SAUCE

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender, combine the cottage cheese, milk, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the cottage cheese mixture into a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture begins to thicken, about 3–5 minutes.
4. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, letting each addition melt completely before adding more.
5. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat each piece in creamy, cheesy goodness.
6. Ladle into bowls and enjoy hot. Add a sprinkle of extra cheese or a dash of hot sauce if you’re feeling fancy!

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR BEST RESULTS

• Use High-Quality Cheese
  • Freshly shredded cheddar cheese melts better and creates a creamier sauce compared to pre-shredded cheese.
• Blend the Cottage Cheese
  • For a smooth and creamy texture, blend the cottage cheese with the milk and seasonings before cooking. This ensures there are no lumps in your sauce.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta
  • Cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Add the Cheese Gradually
  • Stir in the cheddar cheese a handful at a time, allowing it to melt completely before adding more. This helps create a silky, even sauce.
• Season to Taste
  • Start with the suggested salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, then adjust to your liking. You can even add paprika, onion powder, or mustard powder for extra flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Cornstarch
  • The cornstarch helps thicken the sauce and gives it that velvety texture. Make sure to whisk it well into the milk mixture to avoid clumps.
• Serve Fresh
  • Protein mac and cheese is best enjoyed immediately while the sauce is creamy and hot.

STORING LEFTOVER HIGH-PROTEIN MAC AND CHEESE

To store leftover protein mac and cheese, first let it cool completely to room temperature. Transfer the mac and cheese to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.

When reheating, use the stovetop or microwave. For stovetop reheating, add a splash of milk to bring the creamy sauce back to life and prevent it from drying out. Warm over low heat, stirring gently, until heated through. 

For the microwave, transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of milk, and cover with a microwave-safe lid or wrap. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warm.

Avoid freezing, as the cheese sauce may separate and lose its creamy texture when thawed. Enjoy your leftovers as a quick, satisfying meal or turn them into a new creation—like a mac and cheese bake topped with breadcrumbs for extra crunch!

FAQS

HOW MUCH PROTEIN DOES THIS MAC AND CHEESE HAVE?

This recipe is packed with protein thanks to the cottage cheese and cheddar! On average, a serving has around 15-20 grams of protein, depending on the exact ingredients.

CAN I ADD SOME EXTRA PROTEIN?

Add cooked chicken, ground turkey, or even steamed peas for an extra protein boost. You could also sprinkle in nutritional yeast for a cheesy, protein-packed addition.

IS THIS SIMILAR TO TRADITIONAL MAC AND CHEESE?

This healthier mac has all the comfort of the real thing but with more protein and fewer carbs and fat, making it a satisfying alternative.

CAN I BAKE THIS IN A BAKING DISH?

Yes! Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs or extra cheese, and bake at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes for a crispy topping.

DOES PASTA SHAPE AFFECT THE TASTE?

Not the taste, but the texture. Short, ridged pastas like elbows or shells hold the creamy cheese sauce best.

WILL THE WHOLE FAMILY LOVE IT?

Absolutely! This healthier, protein-packed mac is a hit with kids and adults alike—it’s one of those favorite comfort foods that everyone enjoys.

Other Delicious Recipes That Are High In Protein You May Enjoy!

• Edible Cottage Cheese Cookie Dough
• Cottage Cheese Queso Dip
• Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl
• High Protein Healthy Strawberry Cheesecake Bites
• Copycat Starbucks Egg White Bites
• Cottage Cheese Pizza Flatbread
• Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip With Cottage Cheese
• 3 Ingredient Creamy Ranch Dip
• High Protein Hamburger Helper
• High Protein Cookie Dough Bites
• Cottage Cheese Flatbread
• Air Fryer Cottage Cheese Toast
• Chicken Carcass Soup
• Frozen Chicken Wings In The Air Fryer

IF YOU TRIED THIS CREAMY PASTA RECIPE PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT AND STAR RATING. I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOUR CREATIONS! YOU CAN PIN THIS CLASSIC RECIPE ON PINTEREST OR SHARE ON INSTAGRAM BY TAGGING @basicswithbails and #basicswithbails