This quick recipe whips up in under 30 minutes, yielding a delicious result. This indulgent dish is a rich, velvety delight, making it an ideal choice for harried families seeking a satisfying solution to their weeknight dinner conundrums.
Macaroni and cheese is a beloved comfort food staple that never fails to hit the spot for me. Discovering innovative approaches to create a lighter take on classic mac and cheese without sacrificing its signature creaminess is my passion.
By incorporating cottage cheese into recipes like vegan mac and cheese, cauliflower mac and cheese, and butternut squash mac and cheese, I seamlessly infuse a protein-rich twist while preserving the signature smoothness, creaminess, and flavor profile of these comforting dishes. I’m thrilled with how well this recipe has turned out – I think you’ll love trying it just as much as I do.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Thanks to the addition of cottage cheese, this creamy mac and cheese recipe boasts an impressive 22 grams of protein per serving, making it an even more satisfying and filling meal option compared to traditional mac and cheese recipes.
- By combining cottage cheese with milk and cheddar cheese, you can craft a rich, luxurious sauce that harmoniously binds to the pasta – all without relying on heavy cream or butter.
- With its quick preparation time of under 30 minutes and straightforward ingredients likely stocked in your pantry, this recipe is a convenient option for any meal occasion. Perfect for busy weeknights!
- – My kiddos gobbled up this mac & cheese, so I know yours will too!
Ingredients Needed
- Classic macaroni and cheese pasta, a comforting favorite. Consider experimenting with whole wheat, gluten-free, or chickpea pasta options to add variety to your dish.
- Richness and nutrition abound when using high-protein, full-fat cottage cheese to elevate the dish’s creaminess. Don’t worry; this subtle ingredient blends seamlessly with the sauce, its presence nearly imperceptible.
- Helps to produce a velvety, sumptuous sauce. While you can use any milk available, whole milk yields the most desirable texture in this recipe.
- Or – enables the sauce to thicken naturally without requiring the addition of a roux. Keeping things lighter with this clever trick!
- Two essential elements that infuse a perfect harmony of flavors into this creamy macaroni and cheese dish.
- infuses the sauce with a subtle depth of flavor and a hint of vibrancy. Consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika for an added depth of flavour.
- Freshly grated cheddar cheese melts exceptionally well, yielding a rich, velvety texture and the quintessential cheesy taste that’s hard to beat. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as its texture tends to inhibit a smooth melting process.
Substitutions
- Totally switch up the pasta shape – explore different options to find your new favorite. Choose from a variety of options like shells, penne, or for a twist, try gluten-free or chickpea pasta for a delicious and nutritious meal. Whatever you choose will still be a hit!
- You’re not sold on cottage cheese just yet? No problem! You can substitute ricotta or Greek yogurt for a comparable creamy texture. While it may not significantly alter the taste profile, substituting this ingredient will still provide a notable protein kick.
- Using whole milk lends a luxurious quality to this sauce, rendering it exceptionally creamy and indulgent; however, if you find yourself without an ample supply, substitute with whichever milk variety you possess. When selecting a dairy-free alternative, consider using almond, oat, or cashew milk. However, be mindful that an unsweetened version is essential to prevent the sauce from becoming overly sweet.
- Without the flour and butter on hand, you can still create a makeshift roux by combining one tablespoon of flour with one tablespoon of melted butter. This subtle thickening will occur naturally, much like when using arrowroot or cornstarch.
- – We’re using plenty of dairy in this recipe so if you’re more interested in a vegan version I highly recommend checking out my vegan mac & cheese!
How to Make Cottage Cheese Mac & Cheese
Making this mac & cheese is super easy! Follow these straightforward steps and you’ll have a satisfying meal prepared quickly.
Prepare the pasta by following the instructions on the packaging for ideal cooking times and methods. Drain and set aside.
Smoothly blend together cottage cheese, milk, cheddar cheese, arrowroot powder, and a pinch of carefully chosen spices to create a velvety consistency.
Simmer the cheese sauce in a skillet over gentle heat, constantly whisking for approximately eight to ten minutes, or until it reaches a smooth, slightly thickened consistency.
Combining the cooked pasta with the rich cheese sauce, gently stir until the noodles are thoroughly coated in the velvety mixture. Allow it to rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the texture to thicken before serving. Enjoy!
Brittany’s Tip
Grate your own cheese! While it’s convenient to use pre-shredded cheese, you’ll often get a superior result by opting for freshly grated cheddar instead. Trust us – the added effort will yield a worthwhile payoff.
How to Serve Cottage Cheese Mac & Cheese
This comforting cottage cheese macaroni and cheese dish is already a crowd-pleaser on its own, yet it’s also an excellent canvas for creative combinations. If you’re seeking inspiration or wish to present it as part of a larger culinary experience, consider the following suggestions:
- I delight in presenting this dish as a satisfying main course, often accompanied by a light and refreshing side salad such as my effortless kale creation or the caramelized sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts. This healthy habit adds an effortless burst of nutrition to your day.
- Are you ready to elevate your performance? Add a satisfying crunch by sprinkling toasted breadcrumbs or ignite your taste buds with a bold drizzle of hot sauce to suit your preferred level of spiciness. Who’s to say a pinch of extra grated cheese won’t elevate the dish to new heights?
- By incorporating additional protein sources, such as nuts or seeds, you can enhance the meal’s satiety. Consider adding flavorful protein sources such as shredded chicken, crispy tempeh, or crumbled turkey sausage to create a hearty and satisfying combination. Adding some heft to this mac and cheese is as simple as turning it into a more satisfying dish.
- This side dish’s versatility shines when paired with baked or grilled proteins, elevating the meal to new heights. I adore serving this dish with my grilled salmon or some crispy air-fried chicken wings – the ultimate comfort food pairing!
Storing Leftovers
When storing leftovers, ensure they are placed in an airtight container and refrigerated for a maximum of 3 to 4 days. When reheating, consider adding a judicious splash of milk to help revitalize the sauce’s texture and restore its creamy consistency. Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until thoroughly heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nope! As the cottage cheese melds with the milk and seasonings, it transforms seamlessly into a silky-smooth and indulgently creamy sauce. No one will ever notice its presence, guaranteed.
Consider using full-fat cottage cheese for its rich, velvety texture and robust flavour profile, ideal for achieving a truly indulgent consistency. While low-fat alternatives can still work effectively, they might yield a slightly more watery consistency, compromising richness.
Absolutely! When selecting a cheese for your dish, consider moving beyond the traditional cheddar option and exploring alternatives such as Gouda, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your preferred varieties. Grate the cheese yourself for a superior melting experience.
Definitely! Consider adding cooked vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas to give your dish an extra nutritional kick. A simple way to incorporate fresh flavors into your classic macaroni and cheese dish is by adding a sprinkle of greens and a pop of color.
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