High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

This High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is a creamy, satisfying twist on a classic favorite. Packed with protein and rich flavors, it’s perfect for a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni noodles
• 1 cup full fat cottage cheese
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
• 1 Tablespoon arrowroot powder or cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: While the pasta cooks, combine cottage cheese, whole milk, cheddar cheese, arrowroot powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper in a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Step 3: Pour the blended cheese sauce into a large skillet or saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat, whisking occasionally for 8-10 minutes, until the sauce is warmed through and slightly thickened.
4. Step 4: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir well to coat all the noodles. The sauce may seem thin at first but will thicken as it sits for a few minutes.
5. Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or extra spices if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, stir in a handful of cooked bacon bits or sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese for a tangier taste and similar protein boost.
• If you don’t have arrowroot powder, cornstarch works equally well as a thickener.
• For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.

Storage

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cottage cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute low-fat cottage cheese, but the sauce may be less creamy and rich compared to using full-fat cottage cheese.

Is arrowroot powder necessary?

Arrowroot powder helps thicken the sauce smoothly, but you can replace it with cornstarch in equal amounts without affecting the taste.

High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 128 reviews

This High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is a creamy, delicious take on a classic comfort food, packed with protein from cottage cheese and rich cheddar. It features a smooth homemade cheese sauce that is blended and gently heated, offering a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and nutritious.

• Author: luca
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 8 oz elbow macaroni noodles

Cheese Sauce

• 1 cup full fat cottage cheese
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
• 1 Tablespoon arrowroot powder or cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Cook pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to be combined with the sauce later.
2. Blend sauce: While the pasta is cooking, combine the full fat cottage cheese, whole milk, freshly grated cheddar cheese, arrowroot powder or cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper into a blender. Blend the mixture until smooth to create a creamy, lump-free cheese sauce.
3. Heat sauce: Pour the blended cheese sauce into a large skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk continuously and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until the sauce is heated through and thickens slightly, taking care not to scorch the sauce.
4. Combine: Add the drained macaroni noodles into the thickened cheese sauce and stir thoroughly to coat every piece of pasta. The sauce might appear thin initially but will continue to thicken as it rests. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired before serving.

Notes

• Arrowroot powder can be substituted with cornstarch for thickening the sauce.
• Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for the best melting texture and flavor.
• The sauce will thicken more as it cools, so if it seems thin at first, give it a few minutes to set.
• You can customize the spices to your preference, adding more garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
• This recipe provides a higher protein content due to the cottage cheese, making it a satisfying meal option.

Keywords: high protein mac and cheese, cottage cheese mac and cheese, healthy mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese recipe, protein packed dinner