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The Ultimate Creamy High-Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese (Ready in 30 Minutes)

A fork lifts a large serving of creamy, orange cottage cheese mac and cheese, showing long, dramatic cheese pulls.
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This recipe delivers the creamy, comforting flavor of classic mac and cheese while boosting the protein significantly using blended cottage cheese. It is a quick weeknight dinner solution that feels indulgent but supports your health goals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk (any kind)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the high-protein cheese sauce. In a blender, combine the cottage cheese and milk. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, with no visible curds.
  3. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
  4. Slowly whisk the smooth cottage cheese mixture into the roux. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3 to 5 minutes. Do not let it boil rapidly.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
  6. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and cheesy. This is your creamy cottage cheese sauce.
  7. Add the cooked and drained macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir gently until all the pasta is evenly coated.
  8. If you want a baked finish, transfer the mixture to a small baking dish. Sprinkle the Panko breadcrumbs over the top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes until the topping is golden. If serving immediately, skip the baking step.
  9. Serve your high protein mac and cheese hot.

Notes

  • Blending the cottage cheese is key to achieving a smooth, non-gritty texture that mimics traditional cheese sauce.
  • For an extra layer of flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of dry mustard powder to the sauce when adding the spices.
  • This recipe makes a fantastic base for adding steamed broccoli or shredded chicken for a complete family friendly protein dinner.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://carlacooking.com/cottage-cheese-mac-and-cheese-recipe/