Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe Delight

There’s something truly magical about a warm bowl of cottage cheese mac and cheese. Picture this: creamy, cheesy goodness envelops perfectly cooked pasta, tantalizing your taste buds with every rich bite. The aroma wafts through the air, inviting everyone to the table like a cozy hug on a chilly evening.

Growing up, mac and cheese was the ultimate comfort food in my house. It was always there for me after a long day, as reliable as my childhood teddy bear. Now, as an adult, I find myself revisiting that nostalgia—excited to elevate this classic dish with the wholesome goodness of cottage cheese. It’s perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or just when you need a little culinary cheer.

I remember the first time I served this dish; my friends couldn’t believe it had cottage cheese in it. Their reactions were priceless! Everyone went back for seconds, proving that comfort food can be both delicious and surprisingly nutritious.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Elbow Macaroni: Choose classic elbow macaroni for that perfect bite-sized shape that holds onto the melty cheese.

• Cottage Cheese: Use full-fat cottage cheese for creaminess; it adds a wonderful depth of flavor without being too heavy.

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for that robust flavor; feel free to mix in some mozzarella for extra gooeyness.

• Butter: Unsalted butter works best to control the saltiness and enrich the sauce’s flavor.

• Milk: Whole milk will give you the creamiest result; don’t skimp here!

• Salt & Pepper: Season generously but taste as you go for the best balance of flavor.

• Breadcrumbs: For an irresistible crunchy topping, use panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Stir in flour until smooth and cook for one minute. Gradually whisk in milk until thickened; remove from heat.

Add Cottage Cheese & Cheddar: Mix in cottage cheese and shredded cheddar until melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste; let the cheesy goodness shine!

Combine Pasta & Sauce: Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce gently until well coated. Feel free to add any additional ingredients like cooked bacon or steamed broccoli here!

Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs evenly before baking for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

This delightful cottage cheese mac and cheese will not just fill your belly but also warm your heart! Enjoy each cheesy bite as you indulge in this comforting classic that combines nostalgia with nutrition!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling your pasta until al dente, then prepare your cheese sauce while it cooks. Combine everything for a quick and tasty meal.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cheeses or add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition. Experiment with spices to make it your own!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to maintain creaminess.

I once made this dish for a friend’s potluck, and they couldn’t believe it was lighter yet just as comforting as traditional mac and cheese.

FAQ

Can I use other types of cheese in cottage cheese mac and cheese?

Yes, feel free to mix different cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda for varied flavors.

Is cottage cheese mac and cheese suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and reheats beautifully, making it a great option for busy weeks.

What can I add to enhance the flavor of my mac and cheese?

Consider adding garlic powder, paprika, or even some cooked bacon bits for extra deliciousness!

Print

Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Cottage cheese mac and cheese is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food, blending creamy cottage cheese with sharp cheddar for a rich, satisfying dish. Perfectly cooked elbow macaroni enveloped in a velvety sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb finish, makes this recipe an ideal choice for cozy dinners or potlucks. In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up this nutritious version of mac and cheese that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup whole milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs

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Instructions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
2. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth; cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened. Remove from heat.
4. Mix in cottage cheese and cheddar until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until well coated. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
6. Top with panko breadcrumbs and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Blend cottage cheese for an ultra-smooth texture before adding it to the sauce. Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or spices like paprika for added flavor.