![['Close-up view of a bowl of High Protein Chili Mac with visible macaroni and toppings.', 'Side view of steaming High Protein Chili Mac with ground beef and cheese melting on top.', 'Rich and hearty High Protein Chili Mac in a bowl, showcasing vibrant ingredients and textures.', 'Colorful High Protein Chili Mac dish featuring macaroni, ground beef, beans, and spices.']](https://quickflavorfix.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/high-protein-chili-mac_1_U1.webp)
High Protein Chili Mac Recipe
A hearty and protein-packed twist on classic chili mac, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz macaroni noodles
Meat
- 1 lb ground beef
Spices and seasonings
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper powder (optional)
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
Sauces and liquids
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 15 oz fire roasted petite diced tomatoes (1 can, do not drain liquid)
- 15 oz red kidney beans (1 can, drained and rinsed)
Dairy
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- ¼ cup milk
Cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375F. Cook macaroni in salted water, drain, and set aside.
- Brown ground beef in a skillet, then season with chili powder, cumin, salt, oregano, cayenne, and paprika.
- Add tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and beans; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Blend cottage cheese and milk until smooth, then combine with noodles and beef mixture.
- Transfer to oven-safe dish, top with shredded cheese, and bake until melted, about 10 minutes.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a dash of hot sauce or chopped cilantro before serving.