Irresistible Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe Delight

Cottage cheese mac and cheese is the dish your inner child has been dreaming of, all gooey cheese and creamy goodness, with a delightful twist. Imagine twirling a fork full of pasta, enveloped in a luscious, cheesy blanket that sings to your taste buds with every bite.

This dish is perfect for those cozy nights when you crave comfort food but want to sneak in some protein. Every spoonful offers nostalgia mixed with modern flair, making it an instant classic for both kids and adults alike.

I once made this cottage cheese mac and cheese for a family get-together, and let me tell you, it vanished faster than my uncle’s questionable dance moves at weddings.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Elbow Macaroni: I recommend using traditional elbow macaroni for that classic pasta shape that holds onto cheese perfectly.

• Cottage Cheese: Opt for full-fat cottage cheese for creaminess; trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A good sharp cheddar adds depth; don’t skimp on quality for maximum flavor.

• Milk: Use whole milk for ultimate creaminess; it’ll make your sauce sing!

• Butter: Unsalted butter works best here; it allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.

• Garlic Powder: Just a sprinkle enhances flavor without overpowering the cheesy goodness.

• Salt and Pepper: Season liberally; these little guys bring everything together.

• Breadcrumbs: For topping; choose panko for extra crunch if you like texture contrast.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Boil the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a generous pinch of salt before tossing in 8 ounces of elbow macaroni. Cook until al dente according to package instructions.

Melt the Butter and Mix Cheese: While the pasta cooks, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in 1 cup of cottage cheese until smooth; then add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted.

Add Milk and Seasonings: Pour in 1 cup of whole milk gradually while stirring. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Keep stirring until everything is beautifully combined.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the macaroni once cooked and return it to the pot. Pour the cheesy sauce over the pasta while mixing thoroughly so each piece gets coated in cheesy goodness.

Add Breadcrumbs Topping and Bake : Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs for crunch before baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Now you’ve got a fantastic casserole ready to be devoured! Enjoy every cheesy bite as you reminisce about childhood meals shared with loved ones around the dinner table.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling your pasta until al dente, then prepare the cheesy sauce while the pasta cooks. Mix cottage cheese, shredded cheese, and spices until creamy. Combine everything in one pot for effortless serving.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap traditional cheeses for your favorites or add veggies like spinach or broccoli. For extra crunch, top with breadcrumbs before baking for an irresistible golden finish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess and prevent drying out.

Sometimes, I whip up this dish just to see my friends’ faces light up when they take that first cheesy bite. Their smiles are worth every stir!

FAQ

Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Absolutely! Low-fat cottage cheese works well while still offering that creamy texture.

What pasta shapes work best for this recipe?

Choose any shape you love; shells and elbow macaroni are popular choices for holding sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it a day in advance and bake it just before serving for maximum freshness.

Print

Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Cottage cheese mac and cheese is your ultimate comfort food, blending gooey cheese with a protein boost for a modern twist on a childhood favorite. This creamy dish envelops elbow macaroni in a rich, cheesy sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for cozy nights or gatherings, this easy-to-make casserole impresses with its golden-brown topping and unforgettable flavor.

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup whole milk
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Boil water in a large pot; add salt and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente according to package instructions.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in cottage cheese until smooth. Add shredded cheddar until melted.
3. Gradually mix in whole milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until combined.
4. Drain the macaroni and return it to the pot. Pour the cheesy sauce over it and mix well.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

• Author: Emily Harrison
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 55mg