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Low Calorie High Protein Mac and Cheese

Low Calorie High Protein Mac and Cheese You'll Love

This Low Calorie High Protein Mac and Cheese is a healthy twist on a classic dish, offering great flavor with fewer calories.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Whole Wheat Pasta Feel free to swap it for gluten-free pasta if needed.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Non-Fat Greek Yogurt Opt for dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.
  • 1 cup Low-Fat Shredded Cheddar Cheese Substitute with dairy-free cheese for a lighter twist.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Omit for a dairy-free version.
  • 1 cup Unsweetened Almond Milk Other non-dairy milks work just as well.
  • 2 tablespoons Cornstarch Use gluten-free cornstarch if avoiding gluten.
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic is a wonderful substitute if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Replace with finely chopped fresh onion for a twist.
  • 1 teaspoon Mustard Powder Feel free to omit if not a fan.
  • to taste Salt & Black Pepper Adjust to suit your taste preferences.
For Protein
  • 1 cup Cooked Chicken Breast (shredded) Skip for a vegetarian option or substitute with more veggies.

Equipment

  • medium pot
  • non-stick skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a medium pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions for 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, then drain and set aside in the pot, leaving it covered to keep warm.
  2. In a non-stick skillet, heat over medium heat and add the cornstarch. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to activate it, releasing a slight nutty aroma.
  3. Gradually whisk in the unsweetened almond milk while continuing to stir to ensure a lump-free consistency. Cook this mixture for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and add the non-fat Greek yogurt to the skillet. Stir gently until the yogurt melts and blends smoothly with the sauce.
  5. Stir in the low-fat shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan until they melt completely into the sauce.
  6. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to combine.
  7. Add the cooked pasta back into the pot, followed by the shredded chicken breast if using. Carefully mix everything together.
  8. Once heated, spoon the Low Calorie High Protein Mac and Cheese into bowls. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 6gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Feel free to customize with added vegetables for extra nutrition.

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