Description
Creamy, cheesy goodness defines this Low Calorie High Protein Mac and Cheese, a guilt-free twist on a classic favorite. Made with whole wheat pasta and a flavorful blend of low-fat cheddar and nutritional yeast, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for busy weeknights, it offers a rich taste that rivals traditional recipes while being versatile enough to incorporate your favorite veggies or proteins. It’s a delicious, family-friendly meal that combines comfort food with healthy eating seamlessly.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces whole wheat pasta
- 2 cups non-dairy milk, unsweetened
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ¼ cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon agar-agar powder
- 1½ cups shredded low-fat cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add 8 ounces of whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together 2 cups of non-dairy milk and 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth until combined.
- Gradually sprinkle in ¼ cup of nutritional yeast while continuously stirring to prevent clumps.
- Once heated through (but not boiling!), add 1 tablespoon of agar-agar powder to the mixture.
- Stir vigorously until fully dissolved, about 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and fold in 1½ cups of shredded low-fat cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- If desired, mix in black pepper or garlic powder for extra flavor.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Stir well until all pasta is coated evenly.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden on top.
Notes
Storage: Allow the Low Calorie High Protein Mac and Cheese to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in individual portions for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the container with the date for reference.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw any frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. For refrigerated leftovers, microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Serving: Serve the Low Calorie High Protein Mac and Cheese hot, garnished with a sprinkle of black pepper or fresh herbs for added flavor. This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Chef’s Tip: For added protein without significantly increasing calories, consider mixing in cooked chicken, turkey, or legumes such as chickpeas or lentils before baking. This not only enhances the nutritional profile but also adds texture and flavor to the dish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Stovetop
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 0
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 0