High-Protein Mac and Cheese
A comforting mac and cheese that boosts protein using cottage cheese instead of heavy cream, delivering a creamy, cheesy finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups pasta (macaroni, penne, or fusilli) — measured dry
- 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 freshly ground black pepper — to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and heavily salt it.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Whisk in the garlic powder and then gradually add the milk.
- Reduce heat and add the shredded cheddar, whisking until smooth.
- Return the drained pasta to the pot and fold in the cottage cheese.
- Pour the cheddar sauce over and stir until coated.
- Warm briefly on low heat before serving.
Notes
For smoother texture, pulse cottage cheese in blender. Can substitute half the cheddar with Gruyère or Monterey Jack.