Prepare to fall in love with a classic comfort food that packs a protein punch: High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese! Creamy cottage cheese blends seamlessly with sharp cheddar and silky pasta, bringing irresistible flavor and loads of nourishing protein to your plate. It’s guaranteed to satisfy cheese cravings and keep you feeling fueled, combining easy prep with a cozy feel that’s perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd. Whether you’re new to cottage cheese or already a fan, this inventive twist on mac and cheese deserves a spot in your dinner rotation!

High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is in its simple but perfectly curated ingredients. Each one has a special role to play, from creating a dreamy, velvety texture to adding richness and amplifying flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Pasta: Choose elbow macaroni, penne, or fusilli for a shape that grabs onto all that luscious cheese sauce.
Cottage Cheese: Both low-fat and full-fat work—this secretly boosts protein and lends a subtle tangy creaminess.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Go for a bold, shredded cheddar to melt into robust, cheesy goodness.
Whole Milk: Adds silkiness and helps create a perfectly pourable sauce.
Unsalted Butter: The fat here carries flavors and gives the sauce a rich base; unsalted helps you control seasoning.
Garlic Powder: Just a teaspoon wakes up all the cheesy flavors—don’t skip this tiny hero!
Salt and Pepper: Essential for highlighting every component; season to your personal taste.

How to Make High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook your chosen pasta shape following the package timing for al dente. Salting the water ensures every bite of High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese has great flavor even before adding the sauce. Once the pasta is perfectly tender with a light bite, drain it well and set aside—it’s time for the magic.

Step 2: Start the Cheddar Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt those two tablespoons of unsalted butter until just foamy. Sprinkle in the garlic powder and whisk for a few seconds; this unlocks its full flavor. Pour in the whole milk, keep whisking, and watch the mixture come together smoothly—no lumps in sight!

Step 3: Melt in the Cheddar

Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese into your simmering milk-butter mix. Stir gently and patiently; the cheese will melt into a silky, decadent sauce. Let it bubble gently but don’t let it boil—this keeps your sauce ultra creamy and prevents it from splitting.

Step 4: Combine with Pasta and Cottage Cheese

Return the drained pasta to its pot and stir in the cup of cottage cheese. Pour the hot cheddar sauce right over the top and mix thoroughly until every noodle is enrobed in creamy, cheesy bliss. You’ll see the cottage cheese melt and mingle with the cheddar for the full effect of High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese.

Step 5: Finish and Heat Through

With everything combined, turn the heat to low and warm the mixture for another 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly. Be careful not to let it boil—this keeps the texture smooth and prevents any graininess from forming. Once it’s hot and bubbling just at the edges, taste and season with salt and plenty of cracked black pepper. Serve it up right away!

How to Serve High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

A finishing touch can take this bowl of cheesy goodness to the next level. Try a generous sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar for melt-in-your-mouth tops, a handful of fresh chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color, or even a scatter of toasted breadcrumbs if you love a crunchy contrast. Each adds its own pizzazz and a little personality to your High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese!

Side Dishes

Balance out the richness with a crisp green salad tossed in zesty vinaigrette, or roasted broccoli florets for a vegetable side that loves cheesy sauces. For heartier eaters, serve with grilled chicken or turkey sausage to keep that protein theme rolling. This flexible dish pairs beautifully with any simple veggie or protein on the table.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style vibe, scoop the High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese into a deep baking dish, add your favorite garnish, and serve straight from the center of the table. For personal servings, lightly pack the mac and cheese into small ramekins, dust with a bit more cheese, and broil for a bubbly, golden top. Hosting? Offer it in mini cups as a pass-around party bite—trust me, they’ll disappear fast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is just as tasty the next day! Store any leftover portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld, making for a rich, satisfying reheated lunch or snack.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, this dish can be frozen. Place fully cooled mac and cheese in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. Freeze for up to two months; just be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce as needed. Stir frequently for even heating. It can also be microwaved in short bursts, stirring between each, until hot and bubbly. Avoid overheating for the creamiest results.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese besides sharp cheddar?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar brings bold flavor, feel free to swap in Monterey Jack, gouda, or even a pepper jack for a bit of zing. You can even mix a couple types for a deeper, layered cheese taste in your High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese.

Is cottage cheese noticeable in the final dish?

Not at all! Cottage cheese melts right into the sauce, adding protein and a creamy body without standing out. Most people won’t even guess it’s in there—they’ll just wonder why your High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is so rich and satisfying!

Can I make this recipe gluten free?

Yes, simply swap the traditional pasta for your favorite gluten free version. Everything else in the recipe is gluten free, so you won’t have to make any other adjustments. High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is just as delicious with alternative pastas.

What type of cottage cheese is best for this recipe?

Either low-fat or full-fat cottage cheese works well—the key is picking a creamy style. Full-fat will give a richer result, but low-fat adds just as much protein and is still delicious! For extra smoothness, you can briefly blend the cottage cheese before adding.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! Assemble the whole High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese up to the final heating step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stove or in the oven until steamy throughout—it will be every bit as creamy and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a mac and cheese lover or just hunting for your next crave-worthy, protein-packed meal, High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is the dish to try. It’s hearty, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. Dive in and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite—you might be surprised how quickly it becomes a new favorite on your table!

High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 21 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Enjoy a delicious twist on classic mac and cheese with this High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese recipe. Creamy cottage cheese adds a protein boost to this comforting dish, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

2 cups pasta (macaroni, penne, or fusilli)

Cheese Sauce:

1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in garlic powder and then milk until smooth. Gradually add shredded cheddar until melted.
Combine and Heat: Combine drained pasta and cottage cheese in the pot; pour cheddar sauce over and stir until evenly coated. Heat through on low for about 2-3 minutes without boiling.
Serve: Serve warm, optionally garnished with additional cheddar or herbs.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American