Description
Looking for a creamy, golden, protein-packed twist on a classic comfort dish? This Baked Mac and Cheese with Cottage Cheese is the perfect blend of indulgence and nutrition. Made with sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and full-fat cottage cheese, this easy recipe bakes up bubbly and golden with a rich flavor and luscious texture. Ideal for weeknight dinners, holiday sides, or simple food ideas that impress. It’s a quick dinner, a cozy lunch, and a healthy-ish comfort food dream rolled into one!
Ingredients
12 ounces elbow macaroni
2 cups full-fat cottage cheese
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups whole milk
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni until al dente, about 1 minute less than package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3–5 minutes.
5. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and cottage cheese until melted and creamy. Add salt, pepper, ground mustard, and taste for seasoning.
6. Stir the drained pasta into the cheese sauce, making sure everything is evenly coated.
7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle additional cheddar and paprika on top if desired.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving for best texture.
Notes
Use full-fat cottage cheese for the best creamy consistency.
Undercook the pasta slightly to prevent mushiness after baking.
Blend the cottage cheese if you prefer a smoother cheese sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg