overhead shot of healthy mac 'n cheese — Makes: *2 Servings*
Per Serving: *18g Protein | 231 Cal*

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Who doesn't love a bowl of creamy, cheesy mac ‘n cheese? It’s the ultimate comfort food! But let's be honest—traditional mac ‘n cheese, while delicious, isn't always the healthiest option. It’s made with butter, pasta, and lots of rich, salty cheeses. It can be heavy and leave you feeling weighed down after eating it. Not this mac ‘n cheese! This healthier mac ‘n cheese is high in protein, but every bit as delicious as your usual homemade mac. It's everything you love about the classic dish, but with a nutritious twist that'll make you feel good about every bite.

This recipe is loaded with protein, thanks to ingredients like cottage cheese and Kaizen noodles. Plus, it's lower in fat without sacrificing that rich, cheesy flavor we all crave. Whether you're looking for a cozy, comforting meal or a healthier option for your mac ‘n cheese fix, this dish is going to be one your whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

High in Protein: With 18 grams of protein per serving, this mac ‘n cheese is a great way to keep you feeling full and energized.
Lower in Calories: At just 231 calories per serving, you can indulge without sacrificing your health and wellness goals.
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Customizable: You can tweak the cheese options to suit your taste or what's in your fridge!

Ingredients

1 serving Kaizen noodles (250g) (you can also use chickpea pasta for extra protein or whole wheat pasta for an additional nutritional boost)
1/2 cup low-fat or nonfat cottage cheese
1 oz fat-free sharp cheddar cheese (or low-fat)
1 gouda Babybel (optional, but highly recommended!)
1/4 cup skim milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
1 tablespoon flour
20g Parmesan cheese
1-2 tablespoons powdered cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Minced parsley, for garnish
Hot sauce, option

Instructions

Cook the Noodles: Prepare the Kaizen noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, set them aside.
Blend the Cottage Cheese: While the noodles are cooking, blend the cottage cheese until smooth. This helps create a creamy sauce without any lumps.
Make the Cheese Sauce: To a medium pot over medium heat, add the blended cottage cheese. Stir in the cheddar, gouda (if using), and Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add Milk & Flour: Slowly pour in the skim milk, stirring continuously. Allow the mixture to simmer until it thickens slightly. Sprinkle in the flour and continue to stir until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Taste the cheese sauce and adjust the seasonings if necessary. For a hint of spice, add a few shakes of hot sauce. For tangy creaminess, try a spoonful of Greek yogurt. For more flavor, add a bit of garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
Combine with Noodles: Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and stir until they’re well-coated.
Broil for Extra Crispiness: Transfer the mac n cheese to an oven-safe dish. Broil on high for 3-5 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with a little extra Parmesan cheese and some parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy!

recipe title graphic - photo of healthy mac 'n cheese and the recipe title

Make-Ahead Instructions

If you're planning ahead or want to save time, you can easily make this Healthy, High-Protein Mac 'N Cheese in advance. Follow these steps:

Prepare the Dish: Cook the noodles and make the cheese sauce as directed.
Assemble: Combine the noodles and cheese sauce in an oven-safe dish. Let it cool, then cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Refrigerate: Store the assembled mac 'n cheese in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
When Ready to Serve: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap or foil, and cover the dish with fresh foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
Broil: Once heated, remove the foil and broil for 3-5 minutes until the top is crispy and golden.
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley before serving.

Storage Instructions

If you have any leftovers (though I doubt you will!), let your healthy macaroni and cheese cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much after storing, just add a splash of milk to bring back its creamy goodness.

Nutrition Information (per serving - 2 servings total)

Calories: 231
Carbohydrates: 29g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 9g

Recipe Variations

Tired of plain mac ‘n cheese? Give it a creative twist with one of these variations:

1. Spicy Mac 'N Cheese: If you love a little heat, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. You can also stir in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for an extra punch.

2. Veggie-Loaded Mac 'N Cheese: Boost your veggie intake by adding finely chopped steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas to the dish. Just fold the veggies into the cheese sauce before combining it with the noodles. This adds color, flavor, and nutrients to your mac 'n cheese.

3. Meat Lover’s Mac 'N Cheese: For a heartier meal, mix in some cooked, diced chicken breast, turkey bacon, or lean ground turkey.

4. Smoky BBQ Mac 'N Cheese: Give your mac 'n cheese a Southern twist by adding 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite BBQ sauce to the cheese mixture. A sprinkle of smoked paprika also adds a lovely depth of flavor. You can also top your mac 'n cheese with a bit of leftover barbecued meat for even more protein.

5. Mediterranean Mac 'N Cheese: Add a Mediterranean flair by stirring in some sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. This variation is bursting with vibrant flavors that pair perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce.

FAQs

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match cheeses based on your preference. Just keep in mind that the nutritional information will change slightly.
Yes, you can skip the broiling if you’re in a hurry or if you don’t like baked mac ‘n cheese, but it adds a nice crunchy texture on top that’s worth the extra few minutes.
You sure can! Just use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour, and ensure your noodles are gluten-free.

This Healthy, High-Protein Mac ‘N Cheese is proof that comfort food can be both delicious and nutritious. Plus with endless customization options you’re sure to find your favorite way to enjoy this healthy version of your favorite comfort food. Give it a try and let me know what you think.