Protein-Rich Low-Calorie Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with a guilt-free twist! Our Protein-Rich Low-Calorie Creamy Macaroni and Cheese recipe combines the timeless appeal of classic mac 'n' cheese with a high-protein, low-calorie approach. Velvety, cheesy goodness meets a protein-packed punch, creating a dish that not only delights your taste buds but also aligns with your nutritional goals. Let's dive into the world of indulgence without compromise!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups high-protein macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (reduced-fat or plant-based for lower calories)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (reduced-fat or plant-based for lower calories)
- 1 scoop unflavored or mild-flavored protein powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheesy Cauliflower Sauce:
a. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
b. Add diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until softened.
c. Add cauliflower florets, vegetable broth, and almond milk to the saucepan. Simmer until the cauliflower is tender.
3. Blend the Sauce:
a. Transfer the cauliflower mixture to a blender.
b. Add shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, and the protein powder to the blender.
c. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Combine and Season:
a. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheesy cauliflower sauce.
b. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve and Garnish:
a. Serve the Protein-Rich Low-Calorie Creamy Macaroni and Cheese in individual bowls.
b. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
6. Enjoy:
Dive into this guilt-free indulgence, savoring the creamy texture and rich flavor of your protein-packed mac 'n' cheese!
#Egg-free #Low-calorie #High-protein #Nut-free