This High Protein Mac and Cheese Recipe comes together with seven simple ingredients, and yields 42 grams of protein per serving! Rich, cheesy, and creamy it’s every bit as delicious as the original recipe, and kids don’t even notice a difference.
Ingredients
* 8 ounce box chickpea pasta elbows any shape works
* 1/2 cup milk
* 2 cups (5-6 ounces/151 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, lightly packed
* 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
* 1 teaspoon bouillon powder or chicken broth base
* 1/2-3/4 teaspoon garlic salt
* 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
*
* In a medium-sized pot, bring water to a boil. Pour in pasta and cook to “al dente" or 7 min for chickpea pasta (see notes). Drain in a colander when finished. Set aside.
8 ounce box chickpea pasta elbows
* In the same soup pot over low-medium heat, continuously whisk together the milk and cheese until the cheese melts or about 1-2 minutes.
1/2 cup milk,2 cups (5-6 ounces/151 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, lightly packed
* Reduce heat to low and whisk in the Greek yogurt, bouillon powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt, and black pepper until smooth.
1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt,1 teaspoon bouillon powder or chicken broth base,1/2-3/4 teaspoon garlic salt,1/8 teaspoon black pepper
* Gently stir the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until combined. Add more garlic salt and black pepper, if needed.
* Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
This High Protein Mac and Cheese recipe is a fantastic way to add extra protein to a classic comfort dish without sacrificing flavor. Chickpea pasta not only boosts the protein content but is also rich in fiber and gluten-free, making it an excellent alternative to traditional pasta. When I switched to chickpea pasta, I noticed it holds its shape well during cooking, giving a pleasant, slightly nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sharp cheddar cheese. Incorporating plain Greek yogurt instead of cream or butter not only enhances the creaminess but also adds probiotics and additional protein, making this dish healthier overall. The bouillon powder or chicken broth base adds a savory depth without heavy cream, and the seasoning with garlic salt and black pepper rounds out the flavor nicely without overpowering the cheese. If you're meal prepping, this mac and cheese stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend reheating gently on the stove or microwave while stirring frequently to maintain the creamy texture. For variation, you can sprinkle some extra cheddar or a bit of smoked paprika on top before serving to add a smoky, slightly spicy twist. This recipe is great for families looking to provide a nutritious meal kids won't notice is any different from regular mac and cheese. It also fits well into high-protein meal plans for active individuals or anyone wanting to boost their protein intake in a delicious way. Give it a try for a comforting, protein-packed dish that's both quick and easy to prepare.
