Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese (High Protein!)

Is there anything more comforting than a creamy dish of mac and cheese? How about one that packs in some extra protein? We love this Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese recipe and know that you will, too!

If creamy, high protein, cottage cheese-based pasta is your jam, then you have to try our Cottage Cheese Alfredo (a long-time community favorite!) and our Buffalo Chicken Alfredo recipe.

3 Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. It’s high in protein. With 11g of protein per serving, our Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese makes the perfect high-protein side dish with any meal!
2. It’s ready in 20 minutes or less. When you need something quick, comforting, and satisfying, this recipe does the trick! With minimal time and effort, you have a creamy, homemade macaroni and cheese dish that the whole crew will love.
3. You can easily turn it into a full meal. Throw some sliced grilled chicken, pulled pork, or ground beef on top and you have yourself a full-blown, high-protein meal that’ll keep you feeling full for hours.

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“FHM Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese”

Side Dish · Serves 6

Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese (High Protein!)

★★★★★Tap a star to rate

Indulge in the wholesome comfort of our Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese—a yummy twist on the classic favorite. Creamy and rich, this version offers a protein-packed upgrade with the velvety smoothness of cottage cheese, making it a satisfyingly delicious dish for all mac and cheese enthusiasts.

Print Pin Rate

269 calories

11g protein

32g carbs

10g fat

17% protein · 49% carbs · 34% fat

4.1g protein per 100 cal

Prep

5 mins

Cook

15 mins

Total

20 mins

Ingredients

• 8 oz. Elbow macaroni
• 3/4 cup Cottage cheese We like Good Culture brand
• 3/4 cup 2% milk
• 1.5 tbsp. Cornstarch
• 3 oz. Sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 1/2 tsp. Onion powder
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp. Unsalted butter
• 1 oz. Parmesan cheese, freshly shredded

Equipment

• Large Pot
• High-speed blender
• Large nonstick pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Vegetable or cheese grater

Instructions

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions. Rinse, drain, and set aside.

2. In a blender or with an immersion blender, combine cottage cheese, milk, cornstarch, cheddar cheese, and seasonings. Blend until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

3. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Once almost melted, transfer the cheese sauce to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and has thickened.

4. Allow the cheese sauce to cool slightly, then add the cooked macaroni to the skillet. Remove from heat and stir in the parmesan cheese.

5. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or seasonings as needed. Sprinkle with additional parmesan cheese for serving. Enjoy this delightful and cheesy pasta dish!

Tami’s notes

Cook the pasta to al dente according to package instructions to ensure the perfect texture. Overcooked pasta may become mushy when combined with the sauce.

Prepare the cheese sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before adding to the pasta for a time-saving meal.

To reheat leftovers, add a splash of milk or broth to maintain the creamy consistency. Heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Nutrition

Per serving: Calories 269kcal · Protein 11g · Carbs 32g · Fat 10g

Nutrition is an estimate and will vary with the brands and amounts you use.