Crockpot Mac and Cheese: A High Protein Delight
If you’re looking for a comforting dish that doesn’t skimp on nutrition, this crockpot mac and cheese is your answer. Perfect for families and meal prep, this recipe combines the creamy goodness of traditional mac and cheese with high-protein ingredients to keep you satisfied. Let’s dive into the details of creating this delicious dish!
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
3 hours
Total Time:
3 hours 10 minutes
Servings:
6 servings
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
Instructions:
- In a large crockpot, combine the elbow macaroni and chicken broth. Stir well to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- Add in the cottage cheese, shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Season the mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, paprika, and salt. Adjust seasoning according to your taste.
- If you prefer an extra creamy texture, mix in the Greek yogurt at this stage.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 3 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Once the cooking time is up, check the pasta for doneness. If it’s tender and creamy, it’s ready to serve! If it’s a bit too thick, feel free to add a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional cheese or herbs if desired. Enjoy your high-protein mac and cheese!
Why Choose High-Protein Mac and Cheese?
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food, but traditional recipes can be heavy on carbs and low on protein. By incorporating ingredients like cottage cheese and Greek yogurt, you not only enhance the creaminess but also boost the protein content significantly. This makes the dish more filling and nutritious, perfect for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet.
Tips for Perfecting Your Crockpot Mac and Cheese
1. Choose the Right Pasta
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like shells or cavatappi. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as different shapes may take longer or shorter to cook.
2. Cheese Options
While this recipe calls for cheddar and mozzarella, you can mix and match your favorite cheeses. Consider trying gouda, pepper jack, or even a blue cheese for a unique flavor twist.
3. Add-Ins for More Flavor
For added nutrition and flavor, consider adding cooked vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers. You can also mix in cooked proteins like shredded chicken or turkey for an even heartier meal.
Storage and Reheating
This crockpot mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
Final Thoughts
This crockpot mac and cheese is not only easy to make but also a delightful way to enjoy a classic dish while keeping your protein intake high. Perfect for meal prep or family dinners, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation. Happy cooking!
