High-Protein Mac and Cheese

A rich and satisfying mac and cheese packed with protein—perfect for post-workout meals or a healthier comfort food option.

Ingredients

• 1 box protein pasta of your choice

• 2 cups cottage cheese

• 1½ cups 2% Fairlife protein milk

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ shallot, finely diced

• ½ stick butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1½ tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 1½ cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese

• 4 tablespoons Juicy Jake’s Low Sodium Seasoning

• 5 tablespoons salt (for pasta water)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the salt and cook the protein pasta according to package instructions. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics
   In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and diced shallot. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.

3. Make the Roux
   Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden. This helps thicken the sauce.

4. Build the Sauce
   Slowly whisk in the protein milk. Stir until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3–5 minutes. Lower the heat and stir in the cottage cheese and Dijon mustard. Mix well until combined.

5. Add the Cheese & Seasoning
   Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and Juicy Jake’s Low Sodium Seasoning. Keep stirring over low heat until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

6. Fix Broken Sauce (if needed)
   If your cheese sauce breaks or separates, add a couple tablespoons of the reserved pasta water and stir vigorously. This will help emulsify and bring the sauce back together.

7. Combine with Pasta
   Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.

Extras & Tips

• Stir in cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu for even more protein.

• Add steamed veggies like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.

• Use a food processor or blender to smooth out the cottage cheese before adding, if you prefer a silkier sauce.