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Low Calorie High Protein Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 88 reviews

This Low Calorie High Protein Mac and Cheese offers a healthier twist on the classic comfort food by incorporating whole wheat pasta, lean shredded chicken, and a creamy cheese sauce made with non-fat Greek yogurt and low-fat cheeses. Packed with protein and flavor, this dish is perfect for those seeking a nutritious yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 cup whole wheat pasta

Cheese Sauce

  • 1/2 cup non-fat Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup low-fat shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Protein

  • 1/4 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded

Instructions

  1. Boil Pasta: Bring a medium pot of water to a boil over high heat.
  2. Cook Pasta: Once the water is boiling, add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes until al dente.
  3. Heat Skillet: While the pasta is cooking, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  4. Warm Cornstarch: Add the cornstarch to the skillet and let it warm up for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
  5. Add Almond Milk: Slowly pour in the unsweetened almond milk while continuously stirring the cornstarch to avoid lumps forming.
  6. Thicken Sauce: Continue stirring the mixture in the skillet for 3-4 minutes until it thickens into a creamy sauce.
  7. Incorporate Yogurt: Lower the heat to low and add the non-fat Greek yogurt, stirring until the sauce is smooth and fully combined.
  8. Add Cheeses: Mix in the low-fat shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until both are melted and the sauce is creamy.
  9. Season Sauce: Add garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper to the sauce and stir well to evenly distribute the flavors.
  10. Drain Pasta: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it using a colander and then transfer it back into the pot.
  11. Add Chicken: Mix the shredded cooked chicken breast into the hot pasta to combine.
  12. Combine Sauce and Pasta: Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and chicken mixture, stirring everything together until well coated.
  13. Heat Through: Allow the mac and cheese to heat through for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  14. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy your nutritious, low-calorie high-protein mac and cheese.

Notes

  • To make this dish vegetarian, omit the cooked chicken breast or replace with sautéed mushrooms or additional vegetables.
  • Use gluten-free pasta if you require a gluten-free version.
  • Ensure to stir the cornstarch and almond milk mixture thoroughly to avoid lumps for a smooth sauce.
  • This recipe is best served fresh but can be reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of almond milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

Keywords: low calorie mac and cheese, high protein mac and cheese, healthy mac and cheese, whole wheat pasta recipe, low fat cheese sauce, chicken mac and cheese

Find it online: https://dishedbydana.com/low-calorie-high-protein-mac-and-cheese-recipe/