Ground Turkey Blended Cottage Cheese Mac & Cheese
A creamy, high-protein, meal-prep-friendly dish that’s perfect for a satisfying dinner or freezer meal!
Ingredients
1 box pasta (boost with whole grain or chickpea pasta)
1 lbs ground turkey
2 medium zucchinis, diced
14 oz cottage cheese
7 oz canned green chilis
½ cup reserved pasta water
½ bag shredded Mexican cheese
Seasonings: salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika
Instructions
Cook pasta according to package instructions; reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
Brown ground turkey in a pan over medium heat, seasoning as desired.
Sauté zucchini until soft.
Blend cottage cheese, green chilis, and pasta water until smooth.
Pour sauce into a pan over low heat, stir in seasonings.
In a baking dish, mix together pasta, turkey, zucchini, sauce, and shredded cheese.
Bake at 400°F for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Enjoy now or freeze for a delicious, protein-packed meal later!
Meal Prep Tip:
This recipe is an excellent choice for meal prepping! It’s easy to make in bulk and stores well in both the fridge and freezer. To prep ahead, simply divide the mac & cheese into individual servings and store them in airtight containers. In the fridge, it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, just reheat in the microwave or oven until hot and bubbly. This makes it perfect for busy weekdays when you don’t have time to cook. Having a protein-packed, satisfying meal on hand can help prevent those moments of reaching for quick, less nutritious options.
Why You’ll Love It:
This Ground Turkey Blended Cottage Cheese Mac & Cheese is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits that make it a great choice for a balanced meal. The ground turkey provides lean protein, which supports muscle repair, boosts metabolism, and helps keep you full longer. Cottage cheese offers a unique blend of protein and calcium, essential for bone health and muscle recovery. Plus, its creamy texture makes it a great base for the sauce, so you can enjoy a rich, indulgent flavor without the extra calories from traditional heavy cream or butter.
The addition of zucchini adds fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, which are crucial for digestion and overall health. Fiber helps promote satiety, making this dish a great option for those looking to maintain or lose weight without feeling deprived. The green chilis not only provide a subtle heat but also contribute a boost of vitamin C, which supports immune health and the absorption of iron.
Choosing whole grain or chickpea pasta can elevate the dish further by increasing the fiber and protein content, keeping your blood sugar stable and providing sustained energy throughout the day.
Whether you’re looking for a post-workout recovery meal, a quick dinner, or a nourishing lunch to pack for the week, this dish offers a balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making it an all-around nutritious choice. And with its simple ingredients and easy prep, it's a go-to recipe for both health and convenience.
