Every now and then, I crave a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl, you know? This creamy high-protein mac and cheese is just that—it’s like the culinary equivalent of your favorite cozy sweater. With each gooey, cheesy bite, it’s like a tiny celebration of flavor and comfort, and honestly, who doesn’t need that?
Steps
- Boil the pasta following the instructions on the package.
- Blend cottage cheese, milk, cornstarch, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the blended cheese sauce into a skillet and heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the thickened cheese sauce in the skillet, stirring well. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste before serving.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (choose from whole wheat, chickpea, or regular pasta)
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese (4% milkfat used)
- 1 cup milk (2% milk used, but whole or skim milk is fine)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 4 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese (approximately 1 cup)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
FAQ
- Can cottage cheese be used in cooking?
- Absolutely! Cottage cheese is quite versatile. It can be incorporated into pasta sauces, pancakes, oatmeal, and even pudding.
- What additional ingredients can enhance macaroni and cheese?
- You can add vegetables like broccoli or peas to macaroni and cheese for a nutritious boost.
- What cheese combinations work well for mac and cheese?
- Extra sharp cheddar cheese is a great choice, but a combination of half gouda and half extra sharp cheddar is also delicious.
- How can you maintain the creaminess of mac and cheese?
- It’s important to keep the sauce at medium heat or lower to prevent the cheese from separating and becoming grainy.
- Are there other macaroni and cheese recipes that don’t use cottage cheese?
- Yes, you can try recipes like Instant Pot macaroni and cheese, stovetop mac and cheese, or a version made in a rice cooker.
Tips
- To achieve the creamiest mac and cheese, avoid using pre-shredded cheese as it contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Instead, shred a block of sharp cheddar cheese yourself.
- Keep the sauce from becoming grainy by not overheating it. Maintain the heat at medium to ensure the cheese doesn’t separate.
- For a healthier twist, consider reducing the pasta quantity and adding steamed broccoli when combining with the cheese sauce. This adds both nutrition and flavor.
- If you prefer a baked mac and cheese, transfer the combined pasta and sauce to a casserole dish, top with panko crumbs and Parmesan cheese, and bake until the crumbs are golden brown.
Equipment
- Blender – For blending the cottage cheese, milk, cornstarch, cheddar cheese, and seasonings into a smooth sauce.
- Skillet – For heating and thickening the cheese sauce.
