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High-Protein Mac and Cheese (Creamy, Cheesy & Muscle-Friendly)

High-Protein Mac and Cheese
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Creamy, cheesy mac and cheese with a protein-packed twist — over 40g of protein per serving, thanks to protein pasta, blended cottage cheese sauce, and lean ground chicken.

Ingredients

Scale

For the pasta:

  • 12 oz (340 g) high-protein or chickpea pasta (elbow or shells work best)
  • Salt, for pasta water

For the protein boost:

  • 1 lb (450 g) extra-lean ground chicken or turkey
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For the cheese sauce:

 

  • 1 cup (225 g) low-fat cottage cheese
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) low-fat milk
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
  • 1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional, boosts the cheesy flavor)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta 1 minute less than the package instructions (it will finish cooking in the sauce). Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Brown the Protein

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken or turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6–8 minutes until fully browned and no longer pink. Set aside.

Step 3: Blend the Cottage Cheese

Add the cottage cheese to a blender or food processor and blend for 30–45 seconds until completely smooth and creamy. This is the secret step that makes the sauce silky instead of grainy.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet used for the protein, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly until smooth and slightly thickened, about 2–3 minutes.

Lower the heat and stir in the blended cottage cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella. Add the mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and browned protein into the cheese sauce. Toss well to coat, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening. Simmer for 2 minutes so the pasta absorbs the sauce and everything heats through.

Step 6: Serve

 

Spoon into bowls and top with extra cheese, toasted breadcrumbs, or fresh herbs. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Notes

Optional toppings:

 

  • Extra shredded cheese
  • Toasted breadcrumbs
  • Chopped parsley or chives

Find it online: https://www.forkstories.com/high-protein-mac-and-cheese/