Name: High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (freshly grated preferred); 2 cups milk or milk alternative; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

High Protein Cottage Cheese is a delicious and nutritious option that has transformed the way I enjoy comfort food. This High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese recipe is a creamy, nutritious twist on a classic dish, combining the goodness of cottage cheese with rich cheddar. It’s perfect for quick dinners or meal prep and will surely satisfy your cravings while providing the protein boost you need. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This High Protein Cottage Cheese

This dish is not only comforting but also packed with benefits. Here are a few reasons to love this recipe:

High protein content: Each serving offers 25g of protein, making it ideal for those looking to build muscle.
Nutritious ingredients: The combination of cottage cheese with high protein and cheddar adds essential nutrients to your diet.
Quick and easy: This meal can be prepared in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable: You can add your favorite spices or vegetables to suit your taste.
Great for meal prep: This dish reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic option for leftovers.
Comfort food: It’s a satisfying meal that brings back childhood memories.

This recipe falls under the American cuisine and is categorized as a Main Dish, perfect for dinner.

Ingredients for High Protein Cottage Cheese

Gather these items:

8 oz elbow macaroni
1 cup full-fat cottage cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (freshly grated preferred)
2 cups milk or milk alternative
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

How to Make High Protein Cottage Cheese Step-by-Step

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about one minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
Step 3: Slowly add the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Lower the heat and stir in the cottage cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the cheese melts into a creamy sauce with a smooth texture.
Step 5: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and gently fold until the pasta is thoroughly coated in the creamy, cheesy mixture.
Step 6: Serve immediately for the best creamy texture, or transfer to an airtight container for meal prep and refrigerate.

Pro Tips for the Perfect High Protein Cottage Cheese

Keep these in mind:

This dish reheats beautifully, making it great for lunches.
Customize with your choice of spices or additional ingredients like broccoli or chicken for added nutrition.
For a lower fat version, opt for low-fat high protein cottage cheese.

Best Ways to Serve High Protein Cottage Cheese

Here are some ideas to elevate your serving:

Top with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor.
Serve alongside a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Pair with roasted vegetables for a colorful presentation.

How to Store and Reheat High Protein Cottage Cheese

To store, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. This dish can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess. It’s perfect for meal prep, and the total time for the recipe is just 30 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions About High Protein Cottage Cheese

What is high protein cottage cheese?

High protein cottage cheese is a dairy product made from curds that have a higher protein content than regular cottage cheese, making it a fantastic protein-rich option for muscle gain and weight loss.

Can I make high protein cottage cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it. It maintains its delicious flavor and texture well.

How do I avoid common mistakes with high protein cottage cheese?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you cook the pasta al dente and mix the cheeses over low heat to prevent curdling. Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.

Variations of High Protein Cottage Cheese You Can Try

Here are some tasty variations:

Add cooked spinach or kale for a nutrient boost.
Mix in some grilled chicken or turkey for added protein.
Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavors.
For a vegetarian option, substitute the elbow macaroni with whole grain pasta for extra fiber.

High Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe - High Protein Cottage Cheese - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our healthy meal prep ideas and nutritious comfort food options.

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For more information on the benefits of high protein diets, check out this study.