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Healthy High-Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

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A creamy, comforting mac and cheese recipe that uses cottage cheese for a high-protein, healthier twist. Easy to make and perfect for a quick, nourishing meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
  • 1 cup (225 grams) small-curd low-fat cottage cheese
  • 1 cup (100 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk (whole or 2%, dairy-free milk works too)
  • 2 tablespoons (28 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 teaspoon (8 grams) garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon (8 grams) onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon (3 grams) salt, adjust to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1 gram) freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons (10 grams) grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) of elbow macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes until just al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup (225 grams) small-curd cottage cheese, 1 cup (100 grams) shredded sharp cheddar, 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk, 2 tablespoons (28 grams) softened unsalted butter, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk until mostly smooth but still a bit textured.
  3. Pour the mixture into a medium saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly for 3-4 minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Add a splash more milk if sauce is too thick.
  4. Add the drained macaroni to the sauce and stir well to coat every noodle.
  5. Optional: Transfer the mac and cheese to a lightly greased oven-safe dish. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons (10 grams) grated Parmesan on top and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
  6. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or cracked black pepper.

Notes

Use small-curd cottage cheese for best texture. Avoid overcooking pasta to prevent mushiness. Stir sauce constantly over low heat to avoid graininess. A quick blend in a blender can smooth the sauce if needed. Dijon mustard brightens the flavor. Optional baking adds a crispy topping.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://gleamgulp.com/healthy-high-protein-cottage-cheese-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-and-delicious/