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Low Calorie High Protein Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 136 reviews

This Low Calorie High Protein Mac and Cheese is a healthy twist on the classic comfort food, featuring whole wheat pasta, non-fat Greek yogurt, low-fat cheeses, and shredded chicken for an added protein boost. The creamy sauce is made without heavy cream, using cornstarch and unsweetened almond milk for a smooth texture, seasoned with a blend of spices to enhance flavor while keeping it light and nutritious.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Protein

  • 1 cup whole wheat pasta
  • 1/4 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded

Sauce

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

Instructions

  1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a medium pot of water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
  2. Prepare the Sauce Base: While the pasta cooks, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the cornstarch and warm it for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
  3. Add Almond Milk: Slowly pour in the unsweetened almond milk while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Continue stirring for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.
  4. Incorporate Greek Yogurt: Lower the heat to low and add the non-fat Greek yogurt. Stir thoroughly to combine and achieve a smooth consistency.
  5. Melt the Cheeses: Add the low-fat shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir until both cheeses are melted and the sauce turns creamy.
  6. Season the Sauce: Add garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasonings throughout the sauce.
  7. Drain Pasta: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and return it to the pot.
  8. Combine Chicken and Pasta: Add the shredded cooked chicken breast to the pasta and mix to combine.
  9. Mix Pasta with Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and chicken mixture. Stir everything together until well-coated.
  10. Heat Through: Allow the mac and cheese to heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure everything is warmed evenly.
  11. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy your low-calorie high-protein mac and cheese.

Notes

  • Using whole wheat pasta increases fiber content and adds a nuttier flavor.
  • Non-fat Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein without excess calories.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the chicken or replace it with a plant-based protein.
  • Be sure to stir the sauce constantly when adding almond milk and cornstarch to prevent lumps.
  • You can adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences.
  • For a thicker sauce, allow the cornstarch and almond milk mixture to thicken slightly longer before adding yogurt.

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

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