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High Protein Taco Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 60 reviews

This High Protein Taco Mac and Cheese is a delicious and nutritious twist on the classic comfort dish, featuring lean ground beef, chickpea pasta for added protein, and a creamy cheese sauce made from low-fat cottage cheese and cheddar. Perfect for a hearty meal that satisfies taco cravings while providing a protein boost.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lbs. lean ground beef (96/4)
  • 8 oz. Banza Chickpea Pasta Elbows (weighed uncooked)
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped (113g)

Taco Seasoning

  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. onion powder
  • 1 tsp. garlic powder
  • 2 tsp. smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp. chili powder
  • 1.5 tbsp. ground cumin
  • 1/4 cup water

Cheese Sauce

  • 8 oz. low fat cottage cheese
  • 1/2 cup medium spice salsa
  • 1/4 cup whole milk (or 2% milk)
  • 1/2 cup mild cheddar cheese (56g)
  • 1/2 cup reduced fat sharp cheddar cheese (56g)
  • 1 tbsp. all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the chickpea elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Brown the Meat: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook, breaking it down into bite-sized pieces, until fully browned and no longer pink.
  3. Prepare and Add Taco Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine all the taco seasoning ingredients with the water to make a thick paste. Add this seasoning paste to the browned meat in the skillet, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
  4. Add Bell Pepper and Simmer: Chop the red bell pepper and add it to the skillet with the seasoned meat. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently to blend all flavors.
  5. Blend Cottage Cheese: Use an immersion blender, food processor, or blender to puree the low fat cottage cheese until smooth and creamy.
  6. Make Cheese Sauce: To the blended cottage cheese, add the medium spice salsa, milk, and all-purpose flour. Mix thoroughly to combine into a smooth sauce.
  7. Add Cheese Sauce to Meat: Pour the cheese sauce along with the mild cheddar and reduced fat sharp cheddar cheeses into the skillet with the meat and pepper mixture. Stir well until all the cheeses are melted and evenly incorporated.
  8. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained chickpea pasta to the skillet and stir thoroughly to combine all components evenly.
  9. Serve: Optionally top with chopped cilantro and serve hot. Enjoy your high protein taco mac and cheese!

Notes

  • Nutrition facts provided are estimates and can vary based on exact ingredient brands and measurements.
  • Any type of ground meat may be substituted, but beef offers the most authentic taco flavor.
  • Chickpea pasta adds extra protein; however, any short pasta noodles will work well.
  • For a creamier texture, use full-fat cottage cheese instead of low fat.
  • This dish balances comfort food with high protein to keep you satisfied longer.

Keywords: high protein, taco mac and cheese, chickpea pasta, low fat cottage cheese, ground beef, healthy comfort food, Mexican inspired

Find it online: https://cheframi.com/high-protein-taco-mac-and-cheese-recipe/