High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese (Print Version)
High protein cottage cheese mac and cheese offers a healthier twist on a classic comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with protein for a satisfying meal.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian
# Ingredients:
→ The Protein-Packed Core
01 -
8 oz whole wheat elbow macaroni
02 -
2 cups low-fat (1%) small curd cottage cheese
03 -
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
04 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
05 -
1/2 cup 1% milk
→ Savory Seasoning Symphony
06 -
1 tbsp unsalted butter
07 -
1 tsp garlic powder
08 -
1 tsp onion powder
09 -
1/2 tsp dry mustard powder
10 -
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
11 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
12 -
Salt to taste
→ Golden Crumb Topping
13 -
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
14 -
1 tbsp olive oil
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 8 oz whole wheat elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. This is the foundation for your High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese.
02 -
In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs with 1 tbsp olive oil. Toss until evenly coated. This will create a delicious, crispy topping for your High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese.
03 -
In a blender or food processor, combine 2 cups low-fat (1%) small curd cottage cheese, 1/2 cup 1% milk, 1 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp dry mustard powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
04 -
In a large bowl, combine the drained macaroni with the blended cottage cheese sauce. Add 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. Season with salt to taste.
05 -
Transfer the High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the prepared panko breadcrumb topping evenly over the top.
06 -
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese is bubbly around the edges and the panko topping is golden brown and crispy.
07 -
Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly, ensuring a perfect creamy consistency for your High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese.
# Notes:
01 -
For an extra creamy sauce, ensure your cottage cheese is blended completely smooth. A high-speed blender works best.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
03 -
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere or white cheddar, or use gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
04 -
Boost your meal by stirring in cooked spinach, broccoli florets, or diced chicken before baking for added nutrients.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Colander
03 -
Blender
04 -
9x13 inch baking dish
05 -
Small skillet
06 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 513 kcal
Total Fat: 21 g
Total Carbohydrate: 52 g
Protein: 34 g