This Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is a fun twist on a classic dish! Creamy cottage cheese adds a smooth texture and a boost of protein, making it a tasty treat.
I love how easy this recipe is—just mix, bake, and enjoy! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients. Trust me, you won’t be able to stop at one bowl! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: A classic choice for mac and cheese! If you want to switch things up, try using shells, rotini, or fusilli. They hold cheese sauce well, making every bite delicious.
Cottage Cheese: Small curd cottage cheese offers a creamy texture. If you’re not a fan, try ricotta or even Greek yogurt for a similar creaminess with a different taste profile.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor, but feel free to mix it up with pepper jack for some heat or a milder cheese like Monterey Jack if preferred.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds nuttiness and depth. You can use Pecorino Romano for a stronger flavor or skip it if you’re short on time!
Milk: Whole or 2% milk works best, but you can substitute with almond milk or any non-dairy milk for a lighter version—just check for unsweetened options!
How Do I Make a Smooth Cheese Sauce?
Getting that creamy cheese sauce right can be tricky, but here’s how to do it:
- Make a roux by cooking butter and flour together. This gives your sauce structure.
- Add milk gradually. Whisk while you pour to avoid lumps. Stirring continually keeps things smooth!
- Cook until the sauce thickens slightly before mixing in the cheeses. This ensures they melt nicely without clumping.
Remember, patience is key. Don’t rush it—allowing the milk to heat properly and gradually combine with the cheese will give you that smooth, velvety finish.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese (small curd)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: Paprika or smoked paprika for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes total, including baking time. It’s a quick and delicious way to enjoy mac and cheese with a creamy twist!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when your mac and cheese is ready to go in!
2. Cook the Macaroni:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente (that means it should still have a little bite to it!). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until it’s a light golden color (this is called a roux). It shouldn’t brown—just keep it light!
4. Add the Milk:
Gradually whisk in the milk. Keep stirring to avoid lumps, and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. You want it creamy!
5. Stir in the Cheeses and Seasoning:
Remove the sauce from heat and mix in the cottage cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir until it’s all well combined and creamy.
6. Combine with Macaroni:
Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is nicely coated with goodness.
7. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a baking dish or individual oven-safe bowls. If you like a bit of color, sprinkle some paprika on top!
8. Bake It:
Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Yum!
9. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Serve it up hot and enjoy your creamy, cheesy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese!
Have fun with this recipe, and feel free to add your favorite toppings or mix-ins like crispy bacon or broccoli for extra flavor. Enjoy! 🌟
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Yes, you can! Whole wheat pasta will add some extra fiber, while gluten-free pasta will make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, as different types may require slightly different cooking times.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
You can lighten it up by adding more veggies, such as spinach or broccoli, and using lower-fat cheese or cottage cheese. You could also use whole grain pasta for added nutrition!
Can I Make This Mac and Cheese with Other Cheeses?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Cream cheese, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack could bring a fun twist to the flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to help keep it creamy.