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Cottage Cheese Mac n Cheese Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 520
A creamy and cheesy pasta dish made with cottage cheese for added protein and flavor. Perfect for a quick, comforting meal.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni (or cavatappi or shells)

Dairy

  • 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese (small or large curd)
  • 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded from block, divided
  • 0.25 cup whole milk, plus more as needed

Spices and Garnish

  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.25 tsp mustard powder
  • 0.75 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper

Optional Garnish

  • to taste smoked paprika for garnish ((optional))

Instructions 

  • Cook pasta in heavily salted boiling water until 1 minute less than al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
  • Blend cottage cheese, 1 cup shredded cheddar, milk, garlic, onion, mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  • Heat blended sauce in the pot over medium-low, stirring for 2-3 minutes until warmed.
  • Add drained pasta and remaining cheddar; stir vigorously until cheese melts and sauce coats pasta.
  • If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time. Adjust seasoning and serve topped with smoked paprika if desired.

Notes

For extra creaminess, add a splash more milk or cheese as desired.
Calories: 520kcal
Cost: $12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Cheese, Pasta