Comfort in Every Bite: Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese
Who says comfort food can’t be a little bit healthier? My Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic macaroni and cheese, incorporating cottage cheese for a creamy texture and a boost of protein. This dish is a fantastic way to indulge in your cheesy cravings while adding a nutritious element to your meal. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a satisfying side, this recipe promises to deliver flavor and comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
- 8 oz dry pasta (shells or macaroni)
- 1 cup cottage cheese (whole milk)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt (plus more for seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
Directions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil the pasta in salted water until it is al dente. Remember to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Return the cooked pasta to the pot. Over low heat, begin to add the milk, cottage cheese, cheddar cheese, and garlic powder.
- Stir continuously until the cheese has fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Adjust Consistency:
- Slowly pour in the reserved pasta water, stirring constantly, to reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Season Perfectly:
- Season with additional salt to taste. Feel free to add other spices such as paprika, black pepper, or onion powder to enhance the flavor.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add more pasta cooking water or a splash more milk until you achieve the perfect creaminess.
- Serve Hot:
- Dish up the mac and cheese immediately while it’s still warm and gooey.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: 350 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Mac and Cheese
- Protein-Packed: Thanks to the cottage cheese, each serving is loaded with protein, making it more satisfying and nutritious.
- Quick and Easy: With a total time of 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for a quick dinner on busy evenings.
- Customizable: Adapt the recipe to your liking by adding different cheeses or spices. It’s a versatile base that invites creativity.
Serving Suggestions
This Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a crisp salad to add some greens to your meal. It’s also an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats or a hearty soup.
Dive into this creamy, dreamy mac and cheese and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your cheese cravings with a healthier twist!
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Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is a comforting and creamy twist on the classic dish. By incorporating cottage cheese, this recipe adds an extra layer of richness while keeping the dish light. The combination of sharp cheddar and cottage cheese melts beautifully, creating a sauce that clings to every bite of pasta.
Ingredients
8 oz dry pasta (shells or macaroni)
1 cup cottage cheese (whole milk)
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup milk
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt (plus more for seasoning)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
Instructions
Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente, saving 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Return the cooked pasta to the pot. Over low heat, mix in the milk, cottage cheese, cheddar cheese, and garlic powder. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
Gradually add the reserved pasta water to achieve a smoother sauce consistency.
Season with additional salt and other spices such as paprika, black pepper, or onion powder if desired. For a creamier texture, add more pasta cooking water or milk as needed.
Serve immediately while hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 350