Description
Cottage cheese mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy goodness with a cheesy delight that will transport you back to cozy family dinners. This dish features a bubbly, golden crust and promises to satisfy your cravings, making it perfect for both weeknight meals and gatherings with friends. With a rich flavor profile and customizable options, this mac and cheese elevates the classic recipe while keeping it quick and easy.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup smooth cottage cheese
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crispy bacon bits for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in cottage cheese until smooth.
- Gradually whisk in milk until combined, then add shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Combine the pasta with the cheese sauce, ensuring even coating.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with additional cheddar or breadcrumbs if desired, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic powder or smoked paprika. Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free options to make it suitable for gluten sensitivities. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently with a splash of milk.