Description
Creamy homemade cottage cheese mac and cheese delivers comfort in every bite. Simple ingredients and quick preparation make this dish a delightful meal you’ll crave repeatedly.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups pasta (macaroni, penne, or fusilli)
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsps unsalted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook pasta until tender with a slight bite, approximately 8-10 minutes; drain thoroughly in a colander.
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat until it becomes frothy and slightly golden.
- Whisk garlic powder into the melted butter, creating a fragrant base for the sauce.
- Gradually pour milk into the butter mixture, stirring continuously to prevent scorching and create a smooth liquid.
- Slowly incorporate shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese completely melts and forms a rich, creamy sauce.
- Transfer drained pasta back to the original cooking pot and fold in cottage cheese, ensuring even distribution.
- Pour the warm cheddar sauce over the pasta and cottage cheese mixture, gently stirring to coat every pasta strand uniformly.
- Simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld without bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Remove from heat and let stand for a minute to thicken slightly.
- Plate immediately, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs or an additional sprinkle of cheddar for enhanced visual appeal and flavor.
Notes
- Boost protein content by using whole wheat or protein-enriched pasta for an extra nutritional punch.
- Swap dairy milk with unsweetened almond or soy milk to create a lactose-free version that maintains creamy texture.
- For a lighter option, use reduced-fat cheddar and low-fat cottage cheese without compromising the rich, comforting flavor.
- Enhance meal prep by making larger batches and storing in airtight containers for quick reheating during busy weekdays.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg