Mac & Cottage Cheese Recipe
Introduction
Mac & Cottage Cheese is a creamy, comforting twist on the classic mac and cheese. Combining sharp cheddar with smooth cottage cheese creates a rich texture and delicious flavor that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 1 cup whole milk cottage cheese
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup milk
- 3 cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of the cooking water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
- Step 2: In a food processor or blender, combine the cottage cheese, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, mustard powder, and paprika. Blend until smooth, then add the milk and pulse a few times to mix.
- Step 3: Pour the cottage cheese mixture into the pot used for the pasta and heat over medium-high heat. Bring to a low boil while whisking constantly until the mixture thickens, about 1 minute.
- Step 4: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water until the cheese melts. Add the cooked pasta and toss well to coat. Adjust consistency with more pasta water if needed, then serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley.
- Use smoked cheddar for a richer, smoky taste.
- Try substituting half the cheddar with Gruyère or mozzarella for a different cheese blend.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in more pasta water until you achieve the desired creaminess.
Storage
Store leftover mac & cottage cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cottage cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cottage cheese, but the sauce may be less creamy. Whole milk cottage cheese provides the best texture and richness.
What pasta works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but any short pasta like shells, penne, or rotini works well to hold the cheese sauce.
PrintMac & Cottage Cheese Recipe
A creamy and comforting Mac & Cottage Cheese recipe combining tender elbow macaroni with a rich blend of cottage cheese, sharp cheddar, and a hint of spices for a flavorful twist on classic mac and cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
Dairy & Sauce
- 1 cup whole milk cottage cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 3 cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
Seasonings & Thickener
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of the cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare Cottage Cheese Mixture: Add cottage cheese, cornstarch, salt, pepper, mustard powder, and paprika to a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth. Pour in the milk and pulse a few times to combine evenly.
- Heat Sauce: Transfer the blended cottage cheese mixture back to the pot used for the pasta. Heat over medium-high heat, bringing it to a low boil while whisking continuously. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, about 1 minute.
- Add Cheese and Combine: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely. Then add the cooked pasta and toss gently to coat it fully with the sauce. Adjust the consistency by adding more reserved pasta water if needed.
- Serve: Serve immediately while hot and creamy for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Reserving pasta water helps to adjust the sauce consistency and helps it cling better to the pasta.
- Using whole milk cottage cheese creates a creamier sauce, but you can substitute with low-fat if preferred.
- Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
- This dish is best enjoyed freshly made for optimal creaminess.
- You can add cooked vegetables or protein to make the meal more substantial.
Keywords: mac and cheese, cottage cheese recipe, creamy pasta, easy dinner, comfort food, cheddar cheese pasta
