High Protein BBQ Mac is not just your average comfort food; it’s a delicious, fiber-packed dish that’s perfect for meal prepping. This recipe combines the classic flavors of macaroni and cheese with a twist of BBQ, making it a protein-rich pasta dish that everyone will love. With a blend of ingredients that deliver both taste and nutrition, it’s the ultimate choice for a hearty meal without sacrificing health. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make recipe!

Why You’ll Love This High Protein BBQ Mac

This High Protein BBQ Mac is a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Here are several reasons why:

It’s packed with protein, making it an ideal meal for muscle recovery.
Perfect for meal prep, ensuring you have healthy options ready to go.
It’s a delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a BBQ twist.
This recipe is vegan-friendly, catering to a variety of dietary needs.
It’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or protein sources.
Rich in fiber, helping you feel full and satisfied for longer.
It offers a great balance of macronutrients, making it a wholesome choice.
Enjoy BBQ macaroni with extra protein that everyone will rave about!

Ingredients for High Protein BBQ Mac

Gather these items:

11 oz Silken Tofu (Extra Firm)
1/2 cup Cashews, unsalted, raw
1 1/2 cup Soy Milk
1 1/2 cup Nutritional Yeast
1 Onion (diced)
1 bulb Garlic (minced)
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Onion Powder
1 1/2 tsp Salt
1/4 tsp Turmeric
3/4 tsp Umami Powder
1 tsp Lactic Acid
16 oz Elbow Macaroni
1 1/2 cup Vegan Shredded Cheddar
4 oz Say Grace Bits
3/4 cup BBQ Sauce

How to Make High Protein BBQ Mac Step-by-Step

Step 1: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook pasta per package instructions.
Step 2: Boil the Say Grace Bits in water to re-hydrate them for about 10 minutes.
Step 3: Soften the raw cashews by soaking them overnight or tossing them in boiling water for about 10 minutes.
Step 4: Peel and dice the onion.
Step 5: Peel and mince the garlic.
Step 6: Pre-heat the oven to 350 F (177 C).
Step 7: In a non-stick pan on medium-low heat, sauté the diced onion for ~5 minutes until translucent.
Step 8: Add minced garlic and continue cooking for another 3 minutes.
Step 9: In a blender, combine all mac and cheese sauce ingredients to make the sauce.
Step 10: Drain the cooked pasta and mix in the sauce well.
Step 11: Add saucy pasta to a casserole dish, sprayed with oil to avoid sticking.
Step 12: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top, cover with lid or aluminum foil.
Step 13: Toss in the oven for 20 – 25 minutes until cheese has melted.
Step 14: Remove re-hydrated Say Grace from heat, drain, and run cold water over it until cool. Squeeze out excess water.
Step 15: In a medium-heat pan, cook the Say Grace bits for about 15 minutes until browned, then add BBQ sauce and cook for another 5 minutes.
Step 16: Remove mac and cheese from the oven once cheese has melted.
Step 17: Top with BBQ Say Grace bits and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Perfect High Protein BBQ Mac

Keep these in mind:

This recipe is great for meal prep.
Feel free to adjust seasoning to taste.
For a low-carb high protein BBQ mac, consider using zucchini noodles instead of elbow macaroni.
Make sure to blend the sauce until smooth for the best texture.

Best Ways to Serve High Protein BBQ Mac

Here are some ideas to elevate your serving:

Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor.
Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
Serve alongside grilled vegetables for a hearty plate.

How to Store and Reheat High Protein BBQ Mac

To store, allow the mac to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This is a fantastic option for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy healthy meals throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About High Protein BBQ Mac

What’s the secret to perfect High Protein BBQ Mac?

The secret lies in blending the sauce until it’s completely smooth, ensuring a creamy texture that perfectly coats the pasta. This method avoids lumps and enhances the overall taste of your high protein macaroni and cheese.

Can I make High Protein BBQ Mac ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is ideal for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance and simply reheat it when you’re ready to eat, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

How do I avoid common mistakes with High Protein BBQ Mac?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure your pasta is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when baked. Additionally, be cautious not to over-blend the sauce, as it can become too thin.

Variations of High Protein BBQ Mac You Can Try

Here are some creative twists to make this recipe your own:

Substitute elbow macaroni with high protein pasta alternatives like lentil or chickpea pasta.
Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
For a smoky flavor, incorporate liquid smoke into the BBQ sauce.
Try different BBQ sauces for unique taste profiles, such as spicy or sweet varieties.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Korean BBQ Meatballs for a different twist!

High Protein BBQ Mac: 5 Reasons to Love This Comfort Dish - High Protein Bbq Mac - additional detail

For more information on the benefits of high protein diets, you can refer to this Healthline article.

High Protein BBQ Mac: 5 Reasons to Love This Comfort Dish

Author: basmer
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

High Protein BBQ Mac and Cheese is easy to make, delicious, fiber-packed and perfect for meal prepping.

Instructions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook pasta per package instructions.
Boil the Say Grace Bits in water to re-hydrate them for about 10 minutes.
Soften the raw cashews by soaking them overnight or tossing them in boiling water for about 10 minutes.
Peel and dice the onion.
Peel and mince the garlic.
Pre-heat the oven to 350 F (177 C).
In a non-stick pan on medium-low heat, sauté the diced onion for ~5 minutes until translucent.
Add minced garlic and continue cooking for another 3 minutes.
In a blender, combine all mac and cheese sauce ingredients to make the sauce.
Drain the cooked pasta and mix in the sauce well.
Add saucy pasta to a casserole dish, sprayed with oil to avoid sticking.
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top, cover with lid or aluminum foil.
Toss in the oven for 20 – 25 minutes until cheese has melted.
Remove re-hydrated Say Grace from heat, drain, and run cold water over it until cool. Squeeze out excess water.
In a medium-heat pan, cook the Say Grace bits for about 15 minutes until browned, then add BBQ sauce and cook for another 5 minutes.
Remove mac and cheese from the oven once cheese has melted.
Top with BBQ Say Grace bits and enjoy!