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High Protein Chili Mac Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 850
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.
Calories: 850kcal
Cost: $15
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Chili, High-Protein, Macaroni