Description
A creamy and healthier twist on classic mac and cheese using cottage cheese for a protein-packed, smooth cheese sauce. This quick 20-minute recipe yields a comforting, satisfying dish perfect for a family meal or a nutritious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz elbow macaroni (regular, whole wheat, gluten-free, or chickpea pasta works)
Cheese Sauce
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk (or whole milk)
- 1 1/2 cups low fat cottage cheese (but any kind will work)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 10 oz sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta without rinsing it to maintain starchiness for the sauce.
- Prepare the Cottage Cheese Mixture: While the pasta cooks, combine the evaporated (or whole) milk, cottage cheese, kosher salt, and paprika in a blender or food processor. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, ensuring a silky texture for the sauce.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, toss the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese with the cornstarch to coat evenly—this helps thicken the sauce. Add the blended cottage cheese mixture to the pan and set it over medium heat. Stir or whisk frequently, gently heating until the cheese fully melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Fold the drained pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat every piece thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water splash by splash to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt if needed. Serve warm immediately for the best creamy mac and cheese experience.
Notes
- Use any type of pasta you prefer: regular, whole wheat, gluten-free, or chickpea for a protein boost.
- Freshly grate the cheddar cheese for best melting and flavor.
- Reservoir pasta water adds starch, which helps loosen the sauce without diluting flavor.
- Adjust salt to taste, especially if using salted butter or salted cheeses.
- This recipe can be made vegetarian by ensuring the cheese is free of animal rennet.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
