Name: Easy Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Americans
Ingredients: • 1 pound (454g) elbow macaroni• 2 cups (480ml) whole milk• 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream• 1 1/2 cups (340g) cottage cheese• 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter• 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese• 1 teaspoon (5ml) Dijon mustard• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) garlic powder• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) onion powder• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) nutmeg• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Prepare to embark on a flavor journey that will have your taste buds dancing with delight! This Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe is a game-changer in the world of comfort food. Imagine a rich, velvety sauce that envelops tender macaroni, all while the subtle tanginess of cottage cheese adds a delightful twist to the classic dish. Get ready to savor every bite of this easy-to-make, yet exceptionally satisfying culinary masterpiece.

Growing up, mac and cheese was always a beloved staple in our household. But as I’ve grown older, I’ve found myself craving something a little more elevated, a little more unique. That’s where this Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe comes into play. It takes the comforting familiarity of the classic dish and elevates it with the addition of a secret ingredient – cottage cheese. Trust me, once you try this version, you’ll never go back to the standard recipe.

The key to this recipe’s success lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy, velvety sauce is the result of a carefully curated blend of ingredients, including the cottage cheese, which adds a delightful tanginess that complements the richness of the dish. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, so you can whip up a batch anytime the craving strikes.

🌟 Reasons This Recipe Will Become a Favorite

This Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe is a true standout for several reasons. First and foremost, the flavor profile is simply out of this world. The cottage cheese adds a unique and delightful tanginess that elevates the classic mac and cheese experience. But it’s not just about the taste – the texture is also a true showstopper. The sauce is silky-smooth and creamy, enveloping the tender macaroni in a luxurious embrace.

Another reason this recipe is sure to become a household favorite is its sheer ease of preparation. With just a few simple steps, you can have a comforting and satisfying meal on the table in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is accessible and straightforward, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.

🛍️ The Essential Ingredient Lineup

• 1 pound (454g) elbow macaroni
• 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
• 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups (340g) cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
• 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) nutmeg
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

The cottage cheese is the star of the show in this recipe, adding a delightful creaminess and tangy flavor that truly sets it apart from traditional mac and cheese. The combination of whole milk, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese creates a luxurious, velvety sauce that coats the macaroni perfectly. The addition of Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder further enhances the overall flavor profile, while a touch of nutmeg adds a subtle warmth and complexity.

🍳 From Prep to Plate: A Detailed Walkthrough

Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the macaroni and set it aside.
Make the Roux: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a smooth roux.
Add the Dairy: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce has thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
Incorporate the Cottage Cheese: Add the cottage cheese to the sauce and whisk until it’s fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Season and Finish: Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and nutmeg. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and gently fold everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.
Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mac and cheese to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with the shredded cheddar cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy: Allow the mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop out generous portions and savor the creamy, cheesy goodness!

⏱️ Timing Overview

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 35 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes

📊 Estimated Nutritional Profile

Nutritional information is an estimate per serving, based on 8 servings.

• Calories: 605 kcal
• Protein: 24 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fat: 39 g
• Fiber: 2 g

🔄 Creative Twists & Variations

• For a Gluten-Free Version: Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. You may need to adjust the liquid ratios slightly to achieve the desired sauce consistency.
• To Make it Vegan: Use plant-based milk and cream (such as unsweetened almond or oat milk), along with a vegan cheese substitute. Omit the cottage cheese or use a vegan ricotta cheese alternative.
• To Add a Spicy Kick: Stir in a few dashes of hot sauce or finely chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers to the sauce. You can also top the finished dish with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat.

🎉 Elevate Your Meal with These Serving Tips

• Main Course Pairing: Serve this Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese as a satisfying main dish, accompanied by a fresh green salad or a simple roasted vegetable side.
• Garnish Suggestions: Garnish the finished dish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of crispy breadcrumbs or crumbled bacon for added texture and flavor.
• Beverage Pairing: This rich and creamy mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with a crisp, light-bodied white wine, such as a sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing lemonade or iced tea would also complement the dish nicely.

❗ Pro Tips for a Perfect Outcome Every Time

• Mistake 1 – Overcrowding the Pan: When making the roux and sauce, be sure not to overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary to ensure the ingredients have enough space to cook properly and prevent the sauce from becoming too thick or gloppy.
• Mistake 2 – Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure all the ingredients, especially the dairy, are at room temperature before starting. This will help the sauce come together smoothly and prevent any curdling or separation.
• Mistake 3 – Not Preheating the Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 375°F (190°C) before baking the mac and cheese. This will help the cheese melt and brown beautifully on top.

🕒 A Guide to Storing for Later

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or baking dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze. When ready to reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
• Reheating: To reheat the mac and cheese, place it in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway, until hot.

❓ FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of elbow macaroni?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is the classic choice, you can easily substitute other short, tubular pasta shapes, such as penne, cavatappi, or even small shells. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if using a different pasta.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese in advance. Simply assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 3 days before baking. When ready to serve, remove the dish from the fridge, let it come to room temperature, and then bake as directed.

How can I make the sauce extra creamy?

To achieve an even creamier texture, you can blend the cottage cheese in a food processor or high-speed blender until it’s smooth and lump-free before adding it to the sauce. This will help create an ultra-velvety consistency.

Can I use low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese?

While you can use low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese, the full-fat version will provide the best flavor and creamiest texture for this recipe. The higher fat content helps to create a richer, more indulgent sauce.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make this Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese recipe vegetarian, simply omit the Dijon mustard (which may contain a small amount of wine) and use a vegetarian-friendly cheese, such as a sharp cheddar or Parmesan-style cheese. You can also swap the heavy cream for a plant-based alternative, like unsweetened oat or almond milk.

🥳 Wrapping It Up

This Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe is a true culinary delight that’s sure to become a new family favorite. The unexpected addition of cottage cheese elevates the classic dish, creating a luxuriously creamy sauce that perfectly coats the tender macaroni. Whether you’re serving it as a comforting main course or as a decadent side, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

So gather your loved ones, dive in, and savor every bite of this exceptional Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese – it’s a flavor experience you won’t soon forget!