Cottage cheese? In mac and cheese? You might be surprised, but trust me, it’s a game changer. You may already be familiar with cottage cheese desserts, but it’s about time we tried our hand at revisiting some comfort food classics. This healthy take on mac and cheese is not only packed with protein, but it also adds that extra richness and creamy texture you’ll love. Plus, it comes together in just 15 minutes with simple ingredients, making it perfect for a last-minute weeknight dinner that you won’t feel guilty about. Here’s how to make cottage cheese mac and cheese.
Why You’ll Love Adding Cottage Cheese to Mac and Cheese
Adding cottage cheese to mac and cheese may seem unconventional, but it brings a host of benefits that elevate this classic comfort food. Cottage cheese adds an extra layer of creaminess and a rich, tangy flavor that complements the other cheeses in the dish. Its high protein content also boosts the nutritional value of mac and cheese, making it a more balanced meal. Cottage cheese melts smoothly when heated, helping to create a luscious, velvety sauce that clings well to the pasta. Plus, it lightens the overall calorie and fat load compared to using heavy cream or butter, making your mac and cheese a little healthier.
How to Make the Best Mac and Cheese
Creating the ultimate mac and cheese requires a few key tips to achieve the perfect balance of creaminess, cheesiness, and richness:
1. Use a cheese blend
You can’t go wrong with more cheese. While sharp cheddar is a classic, combining different cheeses, like mozzarella and gouda, ensures a complex flavor profile and optimal melting.
2. Make a roux
Start with a roux (a mixture of butter and flour) to thicken the cheese sauce. Cook the roux until lightly browned before adding milk or cream, for a smooth, lump-free sauce. If you’re short on time, you can also use cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
3. Choose the right pasta
Opt for pasta shapes that hold cheese sauce well, such as elbow macaroni, shells, or cavatappi. The nooks and crannies in these shapes catch and hold the creamy sauce, for maximum flavor.
4. Do not overheat
To keep your mac and cheese creamy, avoid heating your pan over higher heat than medium. The sauce may separate and become grainy if it’s too hot.
Easy Cottage Cheese Macaroni Recipe
Typically, when I make macaroni and cheese, I opt for boxed macaroni. But this recipe from i heart vegetables proved too easy to pass up. It only takes 15 minutes to make, and you can even turn it into a baking dish by transferring it to a baking dish and topping it with breadcrumbs and more cheese. I also recommend using a block of cheddar instead of pre-shredded cheddar; the latter can make for a grainy sauce.
Ingredients:
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8 ounces. pasta (you can use whole wheat, chickpea or regular pasta)
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½ cup white cheese, 4% milk fat
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1 cup milk, 2% (whole or skimmed are also suitable)
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1 tbsp. cornstarch
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About 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
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¼ tsp salt
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⅛ tsp pepper
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¼ tsp garlic powder
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¼ tsp paprika
Directions:
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Total time: 15 minutes
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Yield: 4 servings
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Cook pasta according to package directions.
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In a blender, combine cottage cheese, milk, cornstarch, cheddar cheese and seasonings. Then blend until smooth.
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Pour the cheese sauce into a skillet and heat over medium-low heat. Cook for four to five minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Once the pasta is cooked, stir it into the cheese sauce. You can also remove ¾ cup of pasta and add 2 cups of broccoli for a vegetable-based dish. Add additional seasonings to taste if desired.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze it for up to three months.
More Cottage Cheese Recipes You’ll Love:
High Protein Cottage Cheese Pizza Recipe Is Full of Flavor and Requires No Kneading
Snack on These Viral Cottage Cheese Dips: Buffalo Chicken and Queso Options
