Description
This high-protein mac and cheese is a healthier twist on the classic comfort food! Packed with protein-rich ingredients like lean ground turkey, Greek yogurt, and a blend of cheeses, it’s creamy, indulgent, and guilt-free. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying dinner or a protein-packed lunch, this mac and cheese is perfect for high-protein meal prep.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 2 cups low-fat milk
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper to the turkey, stirring to combine.
- In a separate pot, heat the milk over medium heat. Once warm, stir in the Greek yogurt and Dijon mustard until smooth.
- Slowly add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the cooked pasta and turkey mixture, mixing well until everything is evenly coated in the cheese sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, and enjoy this protein-packed mac and cheese!
Notes
- For extra flavor, top with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
- You can substitute the ground turkey with ground chicken or lean beef if preferred.
- If you want more veggies, you can stir in some steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 75mg