High Protein Buffalo Mac and Cheese (With Soy Curls)

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and a healthy twist, then this High Protein Buffalo Mac and Cheese (With Soy Curls) is just the ticket! It’s creamy, spicy, and loaded with protein, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home because it not only satisfies those cheesy cravings but also packs a nutritious punch with protein pasta and soy curls.

Imagine this: a cozy evening with loved ones, laughter filling the air, and the aroma of buffalo mac and cheese wafting from the kitchen. Whether you’re serving it up for dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick prep time: With just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, you can have dinner on the table in no time!
• Packed with protein: This recipe features high protein pasta and soy curls, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to boost their protein intake.
• Family-friendly flavor: The spicy buffalo sauce combined with creamy cheese makes this dish appealing to both kids and adults.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the cheese sauce and sauté the veggies ahead of time to make meal prep even easier.
• Customizable ingredients: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add your favorite veggies to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This buffalo mac and cheese is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Let’s gather everything we need for this delicious dish!

For the Cheese Sauce

• 3 cups low-fat cottage cheese (675 g)
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (100 g)
• ¼ cup buffalo sauce (60 mL)
• ¾ cup milk (175 mL)
• ½ tsp mustard powder
• ¼ tsp salt and pepper

For the Pasta & Veggies

• 12 oz high protein pasta of choice (340 g)
• 1 Tbsp olive oil (30 mL)
• 1 large orange bell pepper (finely diced)
• 1 medium yellow onion (finely diced)

For the Soy Curls

• 1 8-oz bag dried soy curls (6 cups, 226 g)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (1 L)
• ¼ cup buffalo sauce (60 mL)
• 1 Tbsp vegan Worcestershire sauce (15 mL)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp garlic powder

Optional Toppings

• 6 to 8 slices vegan bacon
• ¼ cup finely cut chives

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily swap in different ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using chickpeas or lentils instead of soy curls for a different texture.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
• Adjust spice levels: Use mild buffalo sauce if you prefer less heat or add jalapeños for an extra kick!
• Go gluten-free: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make High Protein Buffalo Mac and Cheese (With Soy Curls)

Step 1: Prepare the Vegan Bacon

If you’re adding vegan bacon for that delightful crunch, cook the slices until crispy. Then chop them into pieces and set aside. This step adds a lovely texture contrast to our creamy mac and cheese!

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a high-speed blender, combine low-fat cottage cheese, grated cheddar cheese, buffalo sauce, milk, mustard powder, and salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. This rich cheese sauce is what makes our mac and cheese so indulgent while keeping things healthy!

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Boil your high protein pasta in salted water according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Cooking it just right ensures that each bite holds its shape amidst all that deliciousness.

Step 4: Simmer the Soy Curls

In a large pot or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced orange bell pepper and yellow onion; cook until soft—about five minutes. Stir in dried soy curls along with vegetable broth, buffalo sauce, vegan Worcestershire sauce, salt, and garlic powder. Let everything simmer uncovered until most of the broth evaporates—this concentrates all those fabulous flavors!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Finally, stir in your cooked pasta along with the cheesy goodness from step two. If using vegan bacon, toss that in too! Finish off by sprinkling chopped chives over your masterpiece before serving warm.

There you have it! A hearty bowl of High Protein Buffalo Mac and Cheese (With Soy Curls) ready to be enjoyed by everyone at your table!

Pro Tips for Making High Protein Buffalo Mac and Cheese (With Soy Curls)

Making this High Protein Buffalo Mac and Cheese is a breeze, but these extra tips will help you take your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only enhance the flavor but also add more nutrients to your meal. Fresh produce like bell peppers and onions can make a significant difference in taste and texture.

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• Adjust spice levels: If you’re a fan of heat, feel free to add more buffalo sauce! On the other hand, if you prefer a milder dish, reduce the buffalo sauce or serve it on the side for dipping.

• Experiment with different cheeses: While cheddar cheese is delicious, mixing in other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack can create unique flavors and textures. This can also make your mac and cheese extra creamy!

• Make it ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance. Simply follow all the steps up until combining everything together, then store it in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to eat, just bake it until heated through.

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• Leftover magic: If you have any leftovers, try turning them into a casserole by topping with breadcrumbs or additional cheese and baking until golden brown. It makes for a quick and satisfying meal!

How to Serve High Protein Buffalo Mac and Cheese (With Soy Curls)

Serving your Buffalo Mac and Cheese is just as important as making it! Here are some ideas to impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh chives: A sprinkle of finely cut chives adds a pop of color and freshness to each serving.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who love an extra kick, these flakes can be sprinkled on top before serving for added heat.
• Vegan ranch dressing: Drizzle some vegan ranch over the top for a creamy contrast that pairs beautifully with the spices.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Kale Chips: Lightly seasoned kale chips make for a crunchy, nutritious side that complements the creaminess of the mac and cheese.
• Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets with olive oil and garlic powder before roasting them. The charred edges add a delightful texture and flavor balance.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brushed with a little olive oil is sweet, delicious, and makes for an excellent summer side.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to dig in! Enjoy your deliciously high protein buffalo mac and cheese with soy curls—it’s sure to be a hit at any table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This High Protein Buffalo Mac and Cheese is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make this dish ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here are some tips on how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if necessary for creaminess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe!

Can I use regular pasta instead of high protein pasta in High Protein Buffalo Mac and Cheese (With Soy Curls)?

Yes, you can use regular pasta. However, using high protein pasta adds extra protein to your dish, making it more filling and nutritious.

How long does High Protein Buffalo Mac and Cheese (With Soy Curls) last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta and ensure your buffalo sauce is gluten-free as well.

What can I substitute for soy curls?

You can replace soy curls with other plant-based proteins like chickpeas or lentils for a different texture and flavor.

Is it possible to make this dish spicy?

If you love heat, feel free to add more buffalo sauce or even some crushed red pepper flakes to amp up the spice level!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to try making this High Protein Buffalo Mac and Cheese! It’s not only creamy and spicy but also packed with nutrients that will keep you satisfied. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts after trying it out!