Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe

Mac and cheese gets a wholesome upgrade with cottage cheese! By blending cottage cheese into the sauce, this recipe becomes a protein-rich, creamy, and satisfying meal. It’s an excellent option for anyone looking to enjoy comfort food with a nutritious twist.

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225 g) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup milk (any kind)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Blender or food processor
• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Whisk
• Baking dish (optional, if baking)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Blend the Cottage Cheese:

• In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese and milk. Blend until smooth and creamy.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce:

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
• Gradually whisk in the blended cottage cheese mixture, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
• Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well.
• Reduce heat to low and add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until melted and the sauce is smooth.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

• Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.

5. Optional Baking Step:

• If you prefer baked mac and cheese, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with additional cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

6. Serve:

• Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Tips

• Customize Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and flour.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate. Combine with cooked pasta before reheating.
• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, bacon, or tofu for a heartier dish.

Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is a delightful spin on the traditional recipe. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with nutrients—making it both delicious and satisfying. Perfect for cozy nights or meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe

Indulge in creamy and protein-packed Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese! This unique twist on the classic comfort food is healthier yet just as delicious, perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

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Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Blender or food processor
• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Whisk
• Baking dish (optional, if baking)

Ingredients

  

• 8 oz 225 g elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup milk any kind
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp paprika optional
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

 

• Cook the Pasta:
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• Blend the Cottage Cheese:
• In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese and milk. Blend until smooth and creamy.
• Make the Cheese Sauce:
• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
• Gradually whisk in the blended cottage cheese mixture, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
• Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well.
• Reduce heat to low and add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until melted and the sauce is smooth.
• Combine Pasta and Sauce:
• Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
• Optional Baking Step:
• If you prefer baked mac and cheese, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with additional cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
• Serve:
• Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.