High-Protein Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
This High-Protein Baked Mac and Cheese is everything comfort food should be — cozy, creamy, satisfying, and packed with flavor — but now upgraded with high-protein ingredients to support fullness, energy, and fitness goals. It’s the perfect balance of indulgence and intention.
Ingredients
- 2 cups dry pasta
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
Seasonings:
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ –½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Optional (but recommended):
- ½ –1 cup shredded cooked chicken breast OR turkey bacon for extra protein
- ¼ cup extra cheddar or mozzarella for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s fully heated by the time you’re ready to bake. Lightly grease your baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking. Set it aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook until just al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Avoid overcooking because the pasta will continue to soften in the oven. Once cooked, drain well and set aside. If needed, toss with a tiny splash of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Add the cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper to a blender. Blend on high until the mixture becomes completely smooth and creamy with no visible curds or graininess. This step helps create that classic velvety mac and cheese texture.
- Pour the blended sauce into a skillet or saucepan and place it over low heat. Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella. Stir continuously until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce. The sauce should look glossy and thick. If it gets too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or water to loosen it slightly.
- Add the cooked and drained pasta directly into the skillet and gently stir until every piece is evenly coated in the creamy cheese sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Transfer the cheesy pasta into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar or mozzarella (or both) evenly over the top.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the top begins turning lightly golden and the edges bubble. For a deeper browned, crispier top, switch to broil for 2–3 minutes, keeping a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set slightly, making the mac and cheese easier to scoop and creamier in texture.