Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

My Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is not just another comfort food; it’s a nutritious twist on a classic dish. Packed with 23g of protein, this recipe combines creamy cottage cheese and sharp cheddar to create a delightful cheese sauce that coats every elbow of pasta. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or satisfying cravings, this healthy mac and cheese is sure to impress everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High in Protein: With 23g of protein per serving, this mac and cheese provides a filling option that supports your dietary needs.
• Easy to Prepare: In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this cheesy delight—perfect for busy weeknights!
• Versatile Dish: Ideal as a main course or a side dish, it pairs well with salads or grilled vegetables.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Featuring higher fiber macaroni and nutrient-rich cottage cheese, it’s a wholesome choice without sacrificing flavor.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and cheesy taste will make even the pickiest eaters ask for seconds.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese, you’ll need some essential tools that help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender
• Medium saucepan
• Measuring cups
• Whisk
• Strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: A high-powered blender ensures your cheese sauce is smooth and creamy without any lumps.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for heating your sauce evenly while you stir in the ingredients.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements guarantee consistent results every time you make this delicious dish.

Ingredients

My Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is packed with 23g of protein, with all the cheesy goodness. This recipe is dietitian and foodie approved!

For the Pasta Base

• 8 oz dry higher fiber macaroni elbows

For the 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

For Thickening the Sauce

• 2 tbsp pasta water
• 1 tbsp corn starch

How to Make Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook pasta according to the package directions (don’t forget to salt the water), drain, and set aside. Remember to reserve 2 tablespoons of water for later.

Step 2: Blend the Cheese Sauce

To a blender, add cottage cheese, milk, nutritional yeast, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and onion powder. Blend until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Cornstarch Mixture

In a small dish, whisk together reserved pasta water and cornstarch until well combined.

Step 4: Heat the Cheese Sauce

Pour the blended cheese sauce into a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until it reaches a simmer. Add the cornstarch-water mixture to thicken the sauce. Cook for about 5 minutes while stirring frequently to prevent burning. If desired, stir in additional shredded cheese to enhance creaminess.

Step 5: Mix in Pasta

Add cooked pasta directly to the warm cheese sauce. Stir well until all pasta is coated in that delicious cheesy goodness. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

This Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is not just a delightful main dish; it can also be served in various creative ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions that will make this dish even more enjoyable.

Add a Crunch

• Breadcrumb Topping: Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top for an extra crunch.
• Nuts or Seeds: Add chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds for a nutty flavor and texture.

Pair with Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Serve with steamed broccoli for a nutritious contrast and vibrant color.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts add earthiness and pair well with the creamy sauce.

Include a Salad

• Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette complements the richness of the mac and cheese.
• Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad provides a nice balance of flavors, especially with its tangy dressing.

How to Perfect Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

To make your Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese truly outstanding, here are some tips to keep in mind.

• Blend Until Smooth: Make sure to blend the cheese sauce until completely smooth for the creamiest texture.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the sauce before adding pasta; feel free to adjust seasonings according to your preference.
• Use High-Quality Cheese: Opt for good quality cheddar cheese, which enhances the flavor significantly.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Always reserve pasta water as it helps in adjusting the sauce’s consistency later on.
• Cook Slowly: When heating the cheese sauce, do so slowly to prevent burning while ensuring it thickens properly.

Best Side Dishes for Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

Pairing side dishes with your Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy cheese sauce.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus adds a touch of elegance and nutrition to your plate.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings refreshing crunch and balances out the richness of mac and cheese.
4. Grilled Chicken Strips: Simple grilled chicken strips provide additional protein and complement the dish beautifully.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast that pairs well with cheesy flavors.
6. Mixed Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful vegetable stir-fry adds variety and health benefits alongside your mac and cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people love making mac and cheese, but small mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the salt in pasta water: Not salting the water can lead to bland pasta. Always add a generous amount of salt to enhance flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: Overcooked pasta becomes mushy. Aim for al dente, as it will hold up better in the sauce.
• Not blending ingredients well: If your cheese sauce isn’t smooth, it can affect texture. Blend until completely smooth for a creamy consistency.
• Ignoring sauce thickness: If the sauce is too thin, it won’t cling to the pasta. Make sure to let it simmer and thicken properly.
• Forgetting to reserve pasta water: This starchy water helps adjust the sauce consistency. Always reserve some before draining your pasta.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water and reheat over low heat while stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese that you might find helpful.

How much protein is in Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese?

This delicious dish contains 23g of protein per serving, making it a great protein-packed option.

Can I customize my Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli, or spice it up with jalapeños for extra flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This mac and cheese stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and nutritional yeast for flavor.

Final Thoughts

Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is not only creamy and cheesy but also packed with protein, making it a great choice for any meal. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!