The Best Protein Mac And Cheese

Achieving a healthier diet often means adding foods, not removing them from your diet. For example, you can make macaroni and cheese healthier by adding protein. One of the easiest ways to do so is using protein powder. Check out our protein mac and cheese recipe below. Jump to the recipe.

Written by Jack Schrupp & endorsed by Baylee Reller, RDN

How to make high protein mac and cheese

Why should I make protein mac n cheese?

If you are looking to give mac and cheese a protein boost without compromising on taste or texture, adding unflavored protein powder is the answer. While macaroni and cheese is one of the most delicious dishes, it is not particularly nutritious. Heavy on the carbs, light on the protein, mac and cheese is probably not what the doctor ordered. That said, by adding a few grams of protein to each bite, you can turn this classic comfort food into a wholesome meal.

Protein is proven to help increase satiety, helping you feel full for longer. Eating protein will also give you lasting and sustained energy without the crash that comes with eating carbs alone. Moreover, putting unflavored protein powder in your mac n cheese also adds a creamy texture that complements the dish perfectly.

In summary, with the right protein powder, and by following the instructions below, you can quickly and easily turn any boxed or homemade mac and cheese into a balanced meal.

How to pick a mac n cheese?

When picking a mac and cheese, here are a few things to keep in mind:

– Check the ingredients list: Look for a mac and cheese made with whole grain pasta and real cheese. Avoid products with food additives and artificial ingredients.

– Consider whole grain options: Whole grain pasta contains more fiber and nutrients compared to refined pasta. It will keep you feeling full for longer and prevent blood sugar spikes.

– Be mindful of the sodium content: Some packaged mac and cheese are outrageously high in sodium. Opt for brands with low sodium content.

– Make it from scratch: Consider making your own mac and cheese. This allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the recipe to your preferences.

By following these tips, you will choose a healthy mac and cheese that satisfies your cravings while providing valuable nutrients.

How to pick a protein powder?

Not all protein powders are created equal, and some pair better with mac and cheese than others. Our unflavored protein powders, for example, are made from whole food protein sources, not protein concentrates and isolates. The latter have been stripped of everything but the protein, giving them an unpleasant chalky aftertaste.

For this recipe you can use either of our unflavored protein powder varieties. We recommend our almond-based, vegan unflavored protein powder, since it responds better to high heat. If you would like to use our unflavored egg white protein powder, simply remove the pasta from the heat and slowly stir in the protein powder.

Now, without further ado, here is a quick and easy protein mac and cheese recipe.

Protein Mac And Cheese Recipe

Ingredients:

-1 6 oz. box of mac n cheese (our favorite is Goodles)

-1/4 cup unflavored protein powder

–1 tbsp milk

Instructions:

Prepare the boxed mac and cheese according to the instructions. After you add in the cheese, add the unflavored protein powder and along with the tablespoon of milk. Depending on the boxed variety, you may need more or less milk for optimal creaminess.

How do I make vegan protein mac and cheese?

Most boxed mac and cheese is not vegan, but there are few options like Annie’s. These options are often packed with thickeners to simulate the taste and texture of cheese, however, so they might not be the healthiest choice! If you do go this route, be sure you use our vegan unflavored protein powder and a milk alternative like almond milk.

Can I add protein powder to homemade mac n cheese?

Yes! This is often the healthiest option, though more time consuming. We have had great luck adding in protein powder to homemade mac and cheeses like this one. As a rule of thumb, add 2-3 tablespoons of protein powder per serving of high protein mac n cheese.

What else can I add to my boxed mac n cheese protein recipe to increase nutrient density?

One easy way to elevate the nutrition profile of your mac and cheese is to add fresh or frozen vegetables such as chopped spinach, broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Vegetables not only increase the fiber content, but also add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to your dish. You can either stir these veggies directly into the mac and cheese while it is cooking, or sauté them separately and mix them in before serving.

In addition to protein powder, you can also consider adding cooked chicken breast, canned tuna, or cooked shrimp for an extra boost of protein. Alternatively, you can incorporate plant-based protein sources like black beans, chickpeas, or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly dish.

This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. drink wholesome is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.