Description
This Low Calorie High Protein Mac and Cheese recipe offers a healthier twist on the classic comfort food by using whole wheat pasta, lean chicken breast, and a creamy cheese sauce made with non-fat Greek yogurt and low-fat cheeses. It’s a satisfying, nutritious meal that’s perfect for those seeking a balance of flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta & Protein
- 1 cup whole wheat pasta
- 1/4 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
Cheese Sauce
- 1/2 cup non-fat Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup low-fat shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 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
- Boil Pasta: Bring a medium pot of water to a boil over high heat.
- Cook Pasta: Add the whole wheat pasta once water is boiling and cook according to the package instructions, about 8-10 minutes.
- Heat Skillet: While pasta cooks, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Warm Cornstarch: Add cornstarch to the skillet and warm it for 1-2 minutes while stirring to prevent burning.
- Add Almond Milk: Slowly pour in unsweetened almond milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Thicken Sauce: Stir the mixture for 3-4 minutes until it thickens into a creamy sauce.
- Incorporate Greek Yogurt: Lower heat to low and stir in the non-fat Greek yogurt until smooth.
- Add Cheeses: Mix in shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Season Sauce: Add garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper, stirring well to combine.
- Drain Pasta: Drain the cooked pasta using a colander and return it to the pot.
- Add Chicken: Stir shredded cooked chicken breast into the pasta.
- Combine with Sauce: Pour cheese sauce over pasta and chicken, mixing until fully coated.
- Heat Through: Allow the mac and cheese to heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy a nutritious, low-calorie, high-protein meal.
Notes
- Use whole wheat pasta to increase fiber content and improve overall nutrition.
- Non-fat Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein while keeping calories low.
- Adjust seasoning to taste if preferred salt or spice levels are different.
- Shredded chicken can be substituted with turkey or omitted for a vegetarian version with additional beans or lentils.
- Ensure continuous stirring when adding almond milk to prevent lumps in the sauce.
