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The Ultimate High-Protein Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

A close-up of creamy, bright orange cottage cheese mac and cheese served in a white bowl near a window.
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This recipe gives you a comforting, classic macaroni and cheese flavor while boosting the protein content significantly by blending cottage cheese into the sauce. It is quick enough for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs (optional topping)

Instructions

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the cheese sauce. Place the cottage cheese, milk, butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder into a blender. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. This step is key for a smooth sauce.
  3. Transfer the blended cottage cheese mixture to a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Warm gently, stirring constantly, until it just begins to steam. Do not boil.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring continuously until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is uniform and thick.
  5. Add the cooked, drained macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat every piece of pasta evenly.
  6. Serve immediately for a creamy texture. For a slight crust, sprinkle Panko breadcrumbs over the top and place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Notes

  • For the creamiest sauce, use a high-speed blender to fully break down the cottage cheese curds.
  • You can substitute half of the cheddar cheese with Gruyère for a deeper flavor profile.
  • This recipe makes a great base for meal prep; store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookincorner.com/cottage-cheese-mac-and-cheese-recipe/