Description
This High Protein Baked Mac and Cheese is a nutritious twist on the classic comfort food, combining creamy low-fat cottage cheese, shredded cheddar, and Parmesan to boost protein content while maintaining rich flavors. Baked to golden perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping, this dish is a cozy and satisfying meal ideal for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
Cheese Mixture
- 2 cups low-fat cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
Seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the mac and cheese.
- Cook Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the low-fat cottage cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, eggs, milk, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Mix Pasta with Cheese: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir gently until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish and pour in the macaroni and cheese mixture, spreading it evenly.
- Add Breadcrumb Topping: Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mixture to create a crispy crust when baked.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese mixture is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the dish to set slightly.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can use whole milk instead of low-fat milk.
- To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- Ensure the macaroni is not overcooked to avoid mushy texture after baking.
- You can add steamed vegetables like broccoli or peas into the mixture for added nutrition.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
