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High-Protein Mac & Cheese
Comfort food can still fit your fitness goals. This High-Protein Mac & Cheese combines creamy cheese, protein-rich cottage cheese and Greek yogurt with lean chicken for a satisfying meal-prep friendly dish.
Ingredients – Makes 4 Servings
- 8 oz dry elbow macaroni
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup 2% milk or unsweetened milk alternative
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder and onion powder. Cook until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature, then dice into bite-size pieces.
- Blend or whisk the cottage cheese, Greek yogurt and milk until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked macaroni, chicken and half of the shredded cheddar to a large bowl or pan. Stir in the cottage-cheese mixture.
- Fold in the remaining cheddar and warm gently until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Divide into four meal-prep containers and refrigerate after cooling.
- Reheat until hot throughout. Add a small splash of milk before reheating if you prefer a creamier sauce.
Why It Works
- Chicken, cottage cheese and Greek yogurt increase the protein without giving up the creamy mac-and-cheese texture.
- Pasta provides carbohydrates that can help fuel training and active days.
- Easy individual portions make it convenient for lunches, dinners or post-workout meals.
- The recipe reheats well, making it a practical addition to a weekly meal-prep plan.
Meal-Prep Tips
- Allow portions to cool before sealing the containers.
- Store refrigerated in airtight containers and use within 3–4 days.
- Keep a little extra milk available for reheating if the sauce thickens.
- Add broccoli, spinach or peppers for extra vegetables if desired.
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving
Approximately 520 calories, 42g protein, 46g carbohydrates and 17g fat. Nutrition is an estimate and will vary based on exact ingredients, brands and portion sizes.
High-Protein Mac & Cheese Recipe Guide
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