Description

Cottage cheese mac and cheese is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food, combining creamy cottage cheese with rich cheddar for a nostalgic flavor experience. This dish offers a healthier alternative to traditional macaroni and cheese, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or quick solo meals. With its golden crust and cheesy goodness, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite that everyone will crave.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz pasta (elbow macaroni or shells)
1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup whole milk
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in the milk until thickened.
Stir in cottage cheese and half of the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Combine cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until well coated.
For an optional baked version, transfer to a greased baking dish, top with remaining cheddar or breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until golden.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
Calories: 400
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: - Customize by adding cooked vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition. - Swap out elbow macaroni for whole grain or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.