Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe
Introduction
Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is a creamy, protein-packed twist on a classic comfort food favorite. This simple recipe uses cottage cheese to create a rich, cheesy sauce that comes together quickly for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- Step 2: In a blender, combine the cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Step 3: Toss the hot pasta with the blended cheese sauce until evenly coated and warm.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the cheese sauce before blending.
- Swap cheddar for gouda or mozzarella for a different cheese profile.
- Add steamed broccoli or cooked bacon for added texture and taste.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cottage cheese in this recipe?
Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well, but the sauce may be slightly less creamy. You can add a little extra shredded cheese to compensate.
What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, penne, or shells hold the cheese sauce nicely and are great choices for this dish.
PrintCreamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe
This Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is a creamy, healthier twist on the classic comfort food. Using cottage cheese in place of traditional heavy cream or milk makes the sauce rich in protein and lower in fat, while still delivering that signature cheesy goodness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe blends cottage cheese and cheddar into a smooth sauce and tosses it with hot pasta for an irresistibly creamy dish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Mac and Cheese Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably small curd)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup milk (optional, for creamier sauce)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, shredded cheddar, milk (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Place the hot cooked pasta in a large mixing bowl. Pour the blended cheese sauce over the pasta and toss gently to coat all the pasta evenly. The heat from the pasta will help warm the sauce through.
- Serve Immediately: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the mac and cheese immediately while warm and creamy. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs or extra cheese.
Notes
- If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash more milk to loosen it.
- Using sharp cheddar gives a bolder flavor, but feel free to mix cheeses for more complexity.
- This recipe can be easily doubled to serve more people.
- For a crispy topping, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, then broil for a few minutes until golden.
Keywords: cottage cheese mac and cheese, healthy mac and cheese, quick mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, cheese pasta, low fat mac and cheese
