Get ready to revolutionize your comfort food game with a mind-blowing twist on the classic mac and cheese! This isn't just another pasta dish - it's a protein-packed, creamy sensation that will make your taste buds dance and your body thank you. Imagine the ultimate comfort food reimagined with a nutritious punch that transforms a guilty pleasure into a wholesome meal that's both delicious and surprisingly healthy. Whether you're a busy professional, a fitness enthusiast, or just someone who loves amazing food, this Chickpea Mac and Cheese is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly under cold running water. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted and bubbling, add the drained chickpeas and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Drain the cooked macaroni using a colander, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water. Return the pasta to the pot.
- Add the milk to the skillet with chickpeas and reduce heat to low. Gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and creates a smooth sauce.
- Pour the cheese and chickpea mixture over the cooked macaroni. Stir gently to combine, using reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of cheese and seasonings.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your protein-packed Chickpea Mac and Cheese!
Tips
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest, most luxurious sauce. Pre-packaged shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
- Don't drain all the pasta water! That starchy liquid is your secret weapon for creating a silky, clingy sauce that coats every single noodle perfectly.
- For extra crispiness, consider briefly pan-frying your chickpeas before adding them to the sauce. This adds a delightful textural contrast and enhances their nutty flavor.
- If you want to boost the protein even more, try using whole wheat or chickpea pasta instead of traditional elbow macaroni.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties - a mix of cheddar and parmesan can add depth and complexity to your sauce.
- Make sure to season generously. The salt and pepper are crucial for bringing out the full flavor of your dish. Pro tip: This recipe is incredibly forgiving and versatile, so don't be afraid to make it your own!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 443kcal
Carbohydrates: 53g
Protein: 18g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 44mg
