Traditional mac & cheese has some protein in it. A bit from the cheese, a bit from the pasta, and a bit more from the milk you add to make it really creamy. Since there isn't much protein in cheese or pasta, this dish isn't a great source of protein. That's why I add tofu to this protein mac and cheese. Tofu is a good source of protein. It's easy to add and doesn't change the flavor of them mac & cheese.