The Ultimate Creamy High-Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese (Ready in 30 Minutes)
This recipe delivers the creamy texture you crave in classic macaroni and cheese while boosting the protein content significantly using blended cottage cheese. It is a quick, family-friendly comfort food perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 20 min
- Total Time: 30 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop (Optional Baking)
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup milk (any kind)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce. Combine the cottage cheese, cheddar cheese, milk, Parmesan cheese, butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a blender.
- Blend the mixture on high speed until it is completely smooth and creamy. This step is key to avoiding graininess.
- Return the drained macaroni to the pot over low heat.
- Pour the blended cheese sauce over the hot pasta. Stir continuously until the sauce is fully incorporated and heated through, about 2 to 3 minutes. Do not boil the sauce.
- If you prefer a baked version, transfer the mixture to a small baking dish. Sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs, if using. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes until bubbly.
- Serve immediately for the creamiest texture.
Notes
- For the smoothest sauce, use a high-speed blender and blend the cottage cheese mixture for at least 60 seconds until no lumps remain.
- If you want a richer flavor, substitute whole milk for regular milk.
- This recipe makes a great base for adding cooked chicken or broccoli florets for extra nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 580
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Unsaturated Fat: 8
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 65
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 35
- Cholesterol: 45