Introduction

This High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting twist on a classic favorite. Packed with protein from cottage cheese and cheddar, it’s a satisfying meal that’s quick and easy to make.

A close-up view of a bowl of mac and cheese, showing one main layer of short tube pasta coated thickly in creamy white cheese sauce with a rough, golden-brown melted cheese crust lightly speckled with black pepper on top, all sitting inside a round white bowl that has a dark rim, placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups pasta (macaroni, penne, or fusilli)
1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente; drain well.
Step 2: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in garlic powder and then add milk, stirring until smooth.
Step 3: Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
Step 4: Combine the drained pasta and cottage cheese in the pot. Pour the cheddar sauce over and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
Step 5: Heat through on low for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, but avoid boiling the mixture.
Step 6: Serve warm. You can garnish with extra cheddar or fresh herbs if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences without losing flavor.
For extra creaminess, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or Greek yogurt with the cottage cheese.
Add cooked vegetables like peas or broccoli for added nutrition and texture.
Freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of smoked paprika can boost the flavor profile.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

A close-up view shows creamy macaroni and cheese with elbow pasta covered in melted cheese sauce. The macaroni is lifted by a wooden spoon, showing long, stretchy cheese strings hanging from the pasta. The pasta is a pale yellow color, smooth and coated thickly with cheesy texture. The macaroni fills a white bowl beneath, with the background softly blurred and featuring a white marbled surface. The image captures the gooey, rich cheese in detail, highlighting the soft shapes of the pasta and the melted cheese stretching upward. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute sharp cheddar with cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or a blend for a different flavor. Just be sure they melt well.

Is this recipe suitable for low-fat diets?

Using low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese and reduced-fat cheddar can make this dish lighter, though it may be less creamy. Adjust the butter and milk accordingly to maintain texture.

High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 53 reviews

This High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is a wholesome twist on the classic comfort food, combining the creamy goodness of cottage cheese with sharp cheddar, delivering a rich and satisfying meal packed with protein. Perfect for those looking to enjoy a nutritious, flavorful dish without sacrificing taste.

Author: Cleo
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

2 cups pasta (macaroni, penne, or fusilli)

Dairy

1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Seasoning

1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Whisk in garlic powder, then gradually add the whole milk, stirring continuously until smooth. Slowly add shredded sharp cheddar cheese, whisking constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
Combine Ingredients: In the pot used for the pasta, add the drained pasta and cottage cheese. Pour the prepared cheddar cheese sauce over the mixture and stir thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
Heat Through: Place the pot over low heat and gently warm the mac and cheese for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to maintain sauce consistency.
Serve: Serve the mac and cheese warm, optionally garnished with additional shredded cheddar or fresh herbs for added flavor.

Notes

You can use either low-fat or full-fat cottage cheese based on your preference.
For a creamier sauce, whole milk is recommended, but you may substitute with 2% milk if desired.
Feel free to add herbs such as parsley or chives as a garnish.
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the regular pasta for gluten-free pasta varieties.
Be careful not to boil the cheese sauce during the final heating to prevent curdling.

Keywords: high protein, cottage cheese, mac and cheese, healthy comfort food, creamy pasta, cheddar cheese, quick dinner