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Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe

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3.9 from 12 reviews

This Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is a healthier twist on the classic comfort food, combining high-fiber pasta with a creamy, protein-packed cheese sauce made from cottage cheese, nutritional yeast, and cheddar. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish offers a balanced, flavorful meal perfect for a quick dinner or satisfying lunch.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 8 oz dry higher fiber macaroni elbows
  • Salt for pasta water (to taste)

Cheese Sauce

  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • ⅓ cup milk
  • ⅓ cup nutritional yeast
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • ⅛ tsp paprika
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ⅛ tsp onion powder
  • 2 tbsp reserved pasta water
  • 1 tbsp corn starch

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the higher fiber macaroni elbows and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Be sure to reserve 2 tablespoons of the pasta cooking water before draining. Set the pasta aside.
  2. Prepare the cheese sauce base: In a blender, combine cottage cheese, milk, nutritional yeast, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and onion powder. Blend until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
  3. Mix cornstarch slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the reserved 2 tablespoons of pasta water and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until fully combined and smooth.
  4. Cook the cheese sauce: Pour the blended cheese sauce into a small saucepan over medium heat. Heat until the sauce just begins to simmer. Slowly add the cornstarch and water mixture while continuously stirring. Continue cooking and stirring for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens. Stir frequently to prevent burning. If desired, stir in additional shredded cheese for extra creaminess.
  5. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly into the thickened cheese sauce. Stir well to coat all the pasta evenly. Serve immediately and enjoy your protein-packed, creamy mac and cheese.

Notes

  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and help thicken with cornstarch.
  • Stir the sauce continuously while heating to avoid burning or clumping.
  • For a smoother blend, ensure the cottage cheese is creamy and fresh.
  • You can adjust seasoning to taste, adding more spices or cheese as preferred.
  • Use higher fiber pasta to increase the nutritional value of the dish.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Find it online: https://iamstarved.com/protein-cottage-cheese-mac-and-cheese-recipe/