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High Protein Mac and Cheese

A rich and creamy mac and cheese made with chickpea or lentil-based pasta and a smooth cheese sauce using Greek yogurt and cheddar. Delivers 25g of protein per serving and works great for weeknight dinners and meal prep.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz high-protein pasta shells or elbows chickpea or lentil-based recommended
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream or milk whole milk preferred for best texture
  • 2 cup shredded cheddar cheese freshly shredded melts better than bagged
  • 0.5 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt full-fat for creamiest results
  • 1 pinch salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing spoon
  • Measuring cups
  • Baking dish (optional for baked version)

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chickpea or lentil pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Do not rinse.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the cream or milk and stir until fully combined and just starting to warm through, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese one small handful at a time, stirring continuously after each addition until fully melted and smooth before adding more.
  4. Add the plain Greek yogurt and stir gently until fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth. Keep heat low to prevent curdling. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk and stir until smooth.
  5. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and fold together until every piece is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve warm immediately. For a baked version, transfer to a greased baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350 degrees F for 10 to 15 minutes until golden on top.

Notes

Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the creamiest sauce. Add cheese gradually to prevent clumping. Keep heat at medium to medium-low throughout to avoid sauce breaking. Slightly undercook pasta for meal prep so it holds texture when reheated. Add cooked broccoli, chicken, or bacon directly into the pasta for a heartier meal.