What is dry cottage cheese and how to use it? All about this protein-rich superfood and 2 easy recipes

Every time I think cottage cheese can’t get any deeper, another variety comes along and wows my taste buds. Recently, I came across dry cottage cheese, which is a less runny version of the dairy superfood. You’re not missing out on either the deliciousness or the protein, as dry cottage cheese contains both. Plus, it’s versatile and can be used in hot or cold dishes without making them watery. Read on to learn more about this type of cottage cheese, as it’s sure to become one of your staple protein dairy products!

How is dry cottage cheese different from regular cottage cheese?

All varieties of cottage cheese start with the same process: milk is heated before adding an acidic ingredient to separate it and form curds. Once drained and rinsed, Erin Coffield, Dietitian, Registered DietitianRegistered Dietitian at National Dairy Councildescribes the final steps that go into creating several types of cottage cheese. “For both small and large curd cottage cheese, a “dressing” is added to the dry curd at the end of the cheesemaking process, which will usually consist of a mixture of cream, milk, salt, and perhaps citric acid.” She explains. “Some brands add less “sauce,” which can result in a drier version. However, for true dry cottage cheese, no sauce is added.” Dry cottage cheese has a solid texture rather than a milky consistency, as little or no liquid is added to the curd. However, it is slightly salty and tart like regular cottage cheese. Dry cottage cheese is therefore ideal if you want to enjoy the dairy product plain or in dishes without much moisture.

The health benefits of dry cottage cheese

Cottage cheese’s reputation comes largely from its health benefits, and dry cheese is no exception. One cup of dry cottage cheese contains 104 calories and 15 grams of protein. This is especially great for increasing your intake of dairy protein, which is packed with amino acids that can help strengthen your immune system and promote weight lossThese benefits give you more than enough reasons to add dried cottage cheese to your regular diet. However, if you are lactose intolerant, be sure to consult your doctor to find out if it is safe for you to consume it.

Best Uses for Dry Cottage Cheese

Although dry cottage cheese is less creamy than most varieties, it is still just as versatile.Dry cottage cheese works well in recipes where you’re looking for less liquid, so it would be a perfect choice for dishes like lasagna, stuffed shells, or stuffed peppers and tomatoes, and also baked goods like cheesecake,” Coffield says. Additionally, she notes that this cottage cheese is great for cold dishes like spreads, salad dressings, and puddings because it provides a thicker consistency. You can usually find dry cottage cheese (often sold as “dry cottage cheese”) in the dairy aisle.

2 delicious recipes using dry fromage blanc

Below, our Test Kitchen shares two recipes that are perfect for adding dry white cheese. Give them a try the next time you’re craving something sweet or savory!

Mini cherry–Almond Clafoutis

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs

• 2 cups (16 oz) dry cottage cheese

• 6 tablespoons sugar substitute, such as raw monk fruit

• 1 tsp almond extract

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 cups fresh cherries, halved and pitted

Directions:

• Active: 5 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

• Yield: 4 servings

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, cottage cheese, sweetener, almond extract and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Divide cherries evenly among six 8-ounce ramekins. Pour batter over cherries.

3. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the center is set and the edges are golden brown. Let cool completely. Garnish with additional fresh cherries and powdered sugar, if desired.

Lemon Pepper Potato Salad

Ingredients:

• 6 medium all-purpose potatoes, peeled, cut in half½ inch pieces

• ¾ cup of dry cottage cheese

• 2 tbsp light mayonnaise

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp lemon pepper seasoning

• ¾ cup chopped celery

• ⅓ cup chopped red and/or green peppers

• ¼ cup fresh parsley leaves

• 1 green onion, chopped

• 2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and cut into pieces

Directions:

• Active: 30 min

• Total time: 1 hour

• Yield: 6 servings

1. In a saucepan, combine potatoes with enough salted water to cover. Over high heat, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium. Cook until potatoes are tender, 10 to 15 minutes. Drain well and let cool completely.

2. Puree cottage cheese and transfer to a large bowl. Stir in mayonnaise, mustard, lemon pepper seasoning and ½ tsp salt. Add celery, bell pepper pieces, parsley, and green onion; toss until coated. Gently stir in potatoes and eggs. Serve at room temperature.

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