If you love mac and cheese but want a healthier twist, this High-Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is the perfect solution. Creamy cottage cheese and melted cheddar combine to create a rich, indulgent sauce, while the elbow macaroni provides that classic comfort food texture. Packed with protein from the cottage cheese, it’s a meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your nutritional needs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This version of mac and cheese is the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. The cottage cheese adds a creamy texture and a protein boost, making it a heartier option without sacrificing the classic cheesy goodness. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, this high-protein mac and cheese is ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a satisfying, wholesome meal in no time.

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni
1 cup cottage cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan, combine the cottage cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to combine until the pasta is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

Extra Veggies: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or cauliflower for added nutrition and color.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the dish some heat.
Cheese Blend: Use a combination of cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan for a more complex cheesy flavor.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheese and plant-based milk to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer—penne, shells, or rotini work well for this recipe.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this mac and cheese ahead and store it in the fridge for later. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I make this mac and cheese spicier?

Absolutely! Add some hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to kick up the heat.

4. How do I get the sauce to be even creamier?

For a creamier texture, use full-fat cottage cheese or a combination of cottage cheese and cream cheese.

5. Can I use non-dairy milk?

Yes, you can use almond, oat, or soy milk as a substitute for regular milk. Just make sure to choose an unsweetened variety.

6. How can I make this dish lighter?

You can use low-fat cottage cheese and reduced-fat cheddar cheese to make it lighter while still keeping the flavor.

7. How long does this dish last in the fridge?

It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

8. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze this mac and cheese. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave.

9. Can I add protein like chicken ?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, or even crumbled turkey sausage would be great additions to this dish.

10. Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free as it uses regular elbow macaroni. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

Conclusion

This High-Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is a comforting, nutritious, and quick meal that everyone will love. It’s the perfect balance of creamy and cheesy, with a healthy twist thanks to the addition of cottage cheese. Whether you enjoy it on its own or with added veggies or protein, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Enjoy this wholesome, guilt-free version of mac and cheese for a satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor!

High-Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Print Recipe

Indulge in a healthier take on mac and cheese with this High-Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese! By using cottage cheese, this dish provides a creamy, cheesy texture with a nutritional boost of protein. Quick and easy to prepare, this version of mac and cheese offers all the comfort of the classic dish with a satisfying, wholesome twist. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni

1 cup cottage cheese

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup milk

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan, combine the cottage cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

For added nutrition, you can mix in steamed broccoli, spinach, or cauliflower.
If you like a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper.
Make it vegan-friendly by using plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese.

Author: Sophia
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Courses
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian