Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese: The Creamiest High-Protein Comfort Food
This Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is a creamy, high-protein twist on the classic comfort food. Blended cottage cheese creates a silky cheese sauce that’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for an easy family dinner or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
8 ounces elbow macaroni or other short pasta
1 cup full-fat cottage cheese
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
1/2 cup milk
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to the package directions.
2. Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
3. Add the cottage cheese, milk, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to a blender.
4. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
5. Return the empty pasta pot to medium-low heat and pour in the blended cottage cheese mixture.
6. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir continuously until the cheese melts into a smooth sauce.
7. Add the cooked pasta back to the pot and toss until every piece is coated with the cheese sauce.
8. If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
9. Serve immediately while hot and garnish with extra cheddar cheese, fresh parsley, or cracked black pepper if desired.
Notes
Full-fat cottage cheese creates the creamiest sauce, but low-fat cottage cheese also works.
Always blend the cottage cheese for a smooth, lump-free cheese sauce.
Freshly shredded cheddar melts much better than pre-shredded cheese.
Reserve pasta water before draining because it helps adjust the sauce consistency.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
When reheating, stir in 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk to make the sauce creamy again.
Customize by adding cooked chicken, bacon, broccoli, spinach, or roasted vegetables.