Indulge in Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe

The creamy allure of cottage cheese mac and cheese brings warmth and comfort, wrapping each bite in a silky embrace. Imagine strings of gooey cheese pulling apart as you lift your fork, accompanied by a hint of savory goodness that dances on your taste buds.

This delightful dish isn’t just for kids or late-night cravings; it’s perfect for dinner parties or cozy family nights. Picture everyone gathered around the table, laughter filling the air as they dig into this cheesy masterpiece. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds!

I remember the first time I served cottage cheese mac and cheese to my friends. Their eyes lit up as they took their first bites, and the room was filled with delighted “mmm” sounds.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Cottage Cheese: Choose small-curd cottage cheese for creaminess; it blends well into the sauce without being too chunky.

• Elbow Macaroni: Classic choice! Cook until al dente to ensure a good bite in every mouthful.

• Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor; it melts beautifully and adds richness to the dish.

• Milk: Whole milk works best here; it helps create a luscious, creamy sauce.

• Butter: Unsalted butter enhances flavor without adding extra salt; use it to create the roux.

• Flour: All-purpose flour thickens the sauce perfectly; make sure to whisk it well with butter.

• Breadcrumbs: Use seasoned breadcrumbs for added crunch on top; they elevate the dish from ordinary to extraordinary!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot and adding salt once it’s bubbling away. Toss in elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes.

Create the Creamy Sauce: In another saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Then whisk in flour continuously until you achieve a smooth paste—this is your roux!

Add Dairy Delightfully: Gradually pour in milk while whisking vigorously. Continue cooking until thickened and bubbly—about 5-7 minutes should do the trick.

Melt in Cheeses: Remove your pan from heat and stir in cheddar cheese along with cottage cheese until fully melted and combined—dreamy consistency achieved!

Toss It All Together: Add drained macaroni directly into your cheesy sauce, mixing well so each piece gets coated like it’s taking a luxurious bubble bath.

Bake to Perfection: Transfer everything into a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown on top.

And there you have it—a delicious plate of cottage cheese mac and cheese that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every gooey bite as you bask in the glory of your culinary creation.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking your pasta until al dente, then combine it with cottage cheese and seasonings in one pot for maximum flavor absorption.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different cheeses, add vegetables like spinach or broccoli, or spice things up with some hot sauce for a kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cottage cheese mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed.

Memories flood back when I think of my first try at making cottage cheese mac and cheese—it was a hit at my family gathering! Everyone went back for seconds, which meant I had to start hiding the leftovers!

FAQ

Can I use low-fat cottage cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! Low-fat cottage cheese works well and still gives that creamy texture.

How long can I store leftover mac and cheese?

You can store it in the fridge for up to three days without losing quality.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or shells are ideal for holding onto that cheesy goodness.

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Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

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Cottage cheese mac and cheese is a comforting twist on the classic dish that combines creamy cottage cheese with gooey cheddar for an unforgettable flavor experience. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a rich, cheesy goodness that will leave everyone asking for seconds. With its golden breadcrumb topping and velvety texture, this dish is as visually appealing as it is delicious.

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

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• 1 cup small-curd cottage cheese
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup whole milk
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs

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Instructions

1. Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth to create a roux.
3. Gradually pour in milk while continuously whisking until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and cottage cheese until fully combined.
5. Fold drained macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
6. Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

• Author: DANIEL LAWSON
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 50mg