High Protein Alfredo Bake is a delightful and hearty dish that combines comforting flavors with nutritious ingredients. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a creamy, cheesy pasta bake without the guilt, thanks to its high protein content. Packed with lean chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich sauce made from cottage cheese and Greek yogurt, this dish is both satisfying and nourishing. It makes a perfect weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal that the whole family will love.
Why Make This High Protein Alfredo Bake
If you’re looking for a comforting meal that won’t derail your health goals, this High Protein Alfredo Bake is an excellent choice. It’s rich in protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, making it perfect for active individuals. Using high protein pasta adds an extra boost, making this dish not only filling but also beneficial for muscle recovery. The addition of broccoli contributes vitamins and minerals, ensuring you get a balanced meal in every bite. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can feed a crowd, making it ideal for gatherings!
How to Make High Protein Alfredo Bake
Making this High Protein Alfredo Bake is simple and straightforward. You’ll start by cooking the pasta, then preparing the chicken and broccoli in a skillet. A quick blend of the creamy sauce ingredients comes next, and finally, you’ll mix everything together and bake it. The result is a meal that’s bubbly, cheesy, and full of delicious flavors. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the steps involved!
Ingredients:
- 8 oz high protein pasta (such as chickpea or lentil pasta)
- 1 lb chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh, or thawed if frozen)
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk (any kind)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta for 1-2 minutes less than the package directions—chickpea pasta typically takes about 6-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large 12-inch skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are no longer pink in the center and the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the broccoli and cook for another 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
- In a blender, combine the cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chicken broth, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Blend on high for 45-60 seconds until completely smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides if needed.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and broccoli mixture. Add the cooked pasta and stir everything together evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with the shredded mozzarella cheese in an even layer.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly around the edges and the cheese is melted with golden spots on top.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1/4 of the dish):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 45g
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
How to Serve High Protein Alfredo Bake
Serving this High Protein Alfredo Bake is easy! You can plate it as a main dish either alone or with a simple side salad for some extra greens. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra grated Parmesan cheese for a touch of elegance. This bake is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even potlucks, as it holds up well and can be easily reheated.
How to Store High Protein Alfredo Bake
If you have leftovers (though this dish is likely to disappear fast!), you can store the High Protein Alfredo Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the pasta mushy.
Expert Tips for Perfect High Protein Alfredo Bake
- Pasta Selection: Opting for high protein pasta is key to maximizing the nutrition of this dish. Look for options made from chickpeas or lentils, as they offer a great boost in protein.
- Creaminess Adjustments: If you prefer a creamier texture, feel free to add more Greek yogurt or cottage cheese to the sauce. Just balance it with additional seasonings to maintain flavor.
- Vegetable Variations: Along with broccoli, you can sneak in other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. They’ll add color, texture, and nutrition.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses! Mixing in some cheddar or pepper jack can change the flavor profile nicely.
Delicious Variations
- Seafood Alfredo Bake: Swap chicken for shrimp or cooked salmon for a seafood twist. Add some lemon zest for brightness!
- Vegetarian Delight: Omit the chicken and add more veggies like mushrooms or spinach for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the sauce or top with jalapeños for a spicy variation that adds a bit of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta depending on your dietary needs. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.
Q2: Is there a dairy-free option?
Yes! You can substitute the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt with dairy-free alternatives like almond yogurt and cashew cream, and replace the cheese with plant-based cheese products.
Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just extend the baking time by a few minutes if you’re taking it straight from the fridge.
Conclusion
This High Protein Alfredo Bake is a fantastic way to enjoy a creamy, cheesy meal without sacrificing your health goals. With its high protein content and delicious flavors, it satisfies both body and soul. Whether for a family dinner or a meal prep option, this dish is versatile and easy to love. So gather your ingredients, whip up this delightful bake, and experience a dish that’s not just good for you but also downright delicious. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you try—happy cooking!
High Protein Alfredo Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta for 1-2 minutes less than the package directions, typically about 6-8 minutes for chickpea pasta. Drain and set aside.
- In a large 12-inch skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until no longer pink and the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the broccoli and cook for another 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
- In a blender, combine the cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chicken broth, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Blend on high for 45-60 seconds until completely smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and broccoli mixture. Add the cooked pasta and stir everything together evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly around the edges and the cheese is melted with golden spots on top.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.