High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese (Print Version)
Enjoy creamy high protein cottage cheese mac and cheese. This healthier twist on a classic comfort food is packed with flavor and nutrients, ready in under 30 minutes.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian
# Ingredients:
→ The Creamy Protein Base
01 -
2 cups 2% small curd cottage cheese
02 -
1/2 cup 2% milk
03 -
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
04 -
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
→ Hearty Macaroni Foundation
05 -
8 oz elbow macaroni
→ Savory Sauce Starters
06 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
07 -
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
08 -
1 tsp Dijon mustard
09 -
1/4 tsp hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco or Frank's RedHot)
→ Aromatic Flavor Boosters
10 -
1/2 tsp garlic powder
11 -
1/4 tsp onion powder
12 -
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
13 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
14 -
2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Cook 8 oz elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside. This ensures your pasta is perfectly ready for the rich, creamy sauce base.
02 -
In a blender, combine 2 cups 2% small curd cottage cheese and 1/2 cup 2% milk. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. This forms the high-protein, velvety base for your Creamy High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese.
03 -
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tbsp all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a smooth roux.
04 -
Gradually whisk in the blended cottage cheese mixture. Stir in 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese until melted. Add 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/4 tsp hot sauce, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp onion powder, and 1/4 tsp smoked paprika.
05 -
Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat every noodle evenly. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, ensuring a perfectly balanced Creamy High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese.
06 -
Serve your Creamy High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese immediately. Garnish each serving with 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped, for a fresh burst of flavor and color.
# Notes:
01 -
For an extra crispy topping, transfer the finished mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
03 -
Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere or white cheddar for different flavor profiles. Ensure they melt well for the best sauce consistency.
04 -
Using small curd cottage cheese is recommended for the smoothest blend, but large curd will work if blended thoroughly. Don't skip blending for that ultimate creamy texture!
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Saucepan
03 -
Blender or food processor
04 -
Whisk
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 594 kcal
Total Fat: 28 g
Total Carbohydrate: 50 g
Protein: 34 g