High protein cottage cheese mac and cheese transforms your favorite comfort food into a nutritious powerhouse that delivers 20 grams of protein per serving. I discovered this game-changing recipe during my own struggle to create satisfying meals that actually fuel my family properly.
Last Tuesday, my teenager complained that our usual mac and cheese left him hungry an hour later. That’s when I realized traditional versions are all carbs and almost no staying power. I started experimenting with cottage cheese as a secret protein boost, and honestly, I was skeptical at first. But when my kids asked for seconds without knowing about the cottage cheese, I knew I’d cracked the code. The sharp cheddar beautifully masks any cottage cheese tang while creating the creamiest sauce you’ve ever tasted. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe delivers all the comfort you crave with the nutrition your body needs. You’re going to love this one!
Table of Contents
Ingredients for High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese
I always keep cottage cheese stocked because it’s my secret weapon for boosting protein without changing flavors dramatically. My preference is full-fat cottage cheese for the creamiest results, though low-fat works perfectly too.
- 2 cups pasta (macaroni, penne, or fusilli)
- 1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat) – I recommend full-fat for richest texture
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese – My go-to is extra sharp for best flavor contrast
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – I usually use European-style for richer taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste – In my experience, freshly cracked pepper makes a difference
Step-by-Step Instructions
I recommend starting the cheese sauce when your pasta has about 3-4 minutes left to cook, so everything finishes at the same time.
Step 1: Cook pasta in heavily salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. The key is stopping just before fully tender since it’ll continue cooking in the sauce.
Step 2: While pasta cooks, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in garlic powder, then gradually add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
Step 3: Add shredded cheddar to the milk mixture gradually, whisking continuously. Don’t rush this step – adding cheese too quickly causes clumping that’s nearly impossible to fix.
Step 4: Drain pasta and return to the original pasta pot. Add cottage cheese and stir gently to distribute evenly throughout the pasta.
Step 5: Pour the cheddar sauce over the pasta and cottage cheese mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated and looks creamy with no visible cottage cheese lumps.
Step 6: Heat on low for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Never let it boil once cottage cheese is added, as this can cause curdling. If sauce seems too thick, add a splash more milk.
What to Serve with High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese
The rich, creamy texture pairs beautifully with fresh, crisp sides that add nutritional balance and textural contrast.
Steamed Broccoli: The slight bitterness of broccoli cuts through the richness while adding fiber and vitamins that complement the protein content perfectly.
Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with lemon vinaigrette provides acidity that balances the creamy cheese sauce and adds fresh vegetables to round out the meal.
Grilled Chicken Breast: For those needing extra protein, sliced grilled chicken transforms this into a complete 35+ gram protein meal that satisfies for hours.
Roasted Asparagus: The earthy flavor and firm texture create an elegant contrast to the creamy pasta, while adding folate and additional fiber.
Storage & Serving Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend portioning into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches. This recipe makes 4 generous servings.
For reheating, add a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess, then microwave in 30-second intervals or reheat gently on the stovetop. Pro tip: gentle heat prevents the cottage cheese from becoming grainy.
This recipe works wonderfully as meal prep – make a double batch on Sunday and you’ll have protein-packed lunches ready all week. You can also customize with steamed vegetables or leftover grilled chicken for variety. Try my cottage cheese alfredo technique for an even creamier sauce variation.
Conclusion
This high protein cottage cheese mac and cheese proves you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for nutrition. With 20 grams of protein per serving and that signature creamy texture we all crave, it’s become our family’s new weeknight favorite. The best part? Even picky eaters never detect the cottage cheese boost. Give this recipe a try – your family will be asking for it on repeat!
High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook pasta in heavily salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in garlic powder, then gradually add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Add shredded cheddar to the milk mixture gradually, whisking continuously until melted and smooth.
- Return drained pasta to the original pasta pot and add cottage cheese. Stir gently to distribute evenly throughout pasta.
- Pour cheddar sauce over pasta and cottage cheese mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated and looks creamy.
- Heat on low for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Do not let it boil. If sauce is too thick, add a splash more milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
