This Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is a creamy twist on a classic favorite! With fluffy pasta and rich cottage cheese, it makes a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug.
Honestly, who doesn’t love mac and cheese? Using cottage cheese adds a fun texture, plus extra protein! I find it perfect for cozy nights in—grab a spoon and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This small pasta is great for trapping cheese sauce. You can swap it for any pasta you enjoy—like shells or fusilli for a twist.
Cottage Cheese: High in protein, it adds creaminess. If you don’t have it, ricotta or Greek yogurt works well but will change the flavor slightly.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I love how the sharpness of cheddar complements cottage cheese. If you’re looking for something milder, try medium cheddar or even a blend of mozzarella and cheddar.
Milk: Whole milk gives richness, but you can also use skim milk or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Just check the flavors to ensure they fit your dish.
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powder add depth. Feel free to adjust or add spices like paprika or chili powder for an interesting kick!
How Do I Make a Smooth Cheese Sauce Without Lumps?
Creating a smooth cheese sauce is key to a perfect mac and cheese. Here’s how to avoid lumps:
- Start by creating a roux. Melt butter in a saucepan, then whisk in flour for about 1-2 minutes until it’s light golden.
- When adding milk, pour it in gradually while whisking continuously. This helps keep the mixture smooth.
- Cook on medium heat until it thickens slightly (3-5 minutes). Keep stirring! This steps prevents sticking and ensures a creamy texture.
- Finally, add cheese gradually, stirring until melted and smooth.
By following these steps, your cheese sauce will turn out perfect every time!
How to Make Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (about 2 cups dry)
- 1 cup cottage cheese (small or large curd, drained if very wet)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese will take approximately 20-25 minutes in total. You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare everything and another 10-15 minutes to cook it. It’s quick and super easy to whip up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt, then cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still slightly firm). Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
2. Make the Roux:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. As it melts, whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux. Keep whisking for about 1-2 minutes until it turns lightly golden. This mixture will help thicken your cheese sauce.
3. Add the Milk:
Gradually pour in the milk while continuously whisking. This helps you avoid any lumps. Keep cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens slightly, which usually takes around 3-5 minutes.
4. Melt the Cheese:
Once your milk mixture is thickened, lower the heat to medium-low. Now, add in both the shredded cheddar cheese and cottage cheese. Stir continuously until all the cheese has melted and your sauce is nice and smooth.
5. Season the Sauce:
Add garlic powder, onion powder (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the cheese sauce. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. This will add a lovely flavor to your mac and cheese!
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Gently stir until all the pasta is well coated with that creamy, cheesy goodness.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese immediately. For a touch of freshness, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or chives on top, along with a little extra black pepper if desired. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is a fantastic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well!
What If I Don’t Have Elbow Macaroni?
No problem! You can substitute elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or shells. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta shape you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it’s too thick.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the macaroni ahead of time. Just mix them together when you’re ready to serve, and reheat gently until warmed through for a delicious meal!
