Description

This Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese recipe offers a deliciously smooth and cheesy pasta dish without using milk. By substituting cottage cheese for the traditional milk or cream, it creates a lighter yet rich texture that’s packed with protein and flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it uses simple ingredients like cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to enhance the comforting taste. The addition of a crispy breadcrumb topping toasted in avocado oil adds a satisfying crunch to this wholesome, easy-to-make meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Mac and Cheese

10 oz pasta (elbow macaroni or shell works best)
3/4 cup cottage cheese
1.25 cup shredded cheddar cheese (preferably shredded from a block for best flavor)
3/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp garlic powder

Topping

1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp salt
3 tsp avocado oil (or any neutral oil)

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the cottage cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, 3/4 tsp salt, and garlic powder. Stir gently until the cheeses melt together into a creamy sauce. Be careful not to overheat to prevent curdling.
Toss Pasta with Cheese Sauce: Add the drained pasta into the cheese sauce and mix thoroughly to coat every piece evenly.
Make the Breadcrumb Topping: In a small skillet, heat avocado oil over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, and 1/4 tsp salt. Stir constantly until the breadcrumbs become golden brown and crisp, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat.
Combine and Serve: Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumb mixture over the cheesy pasta and gently toss or serve with the topping on top for added texture and flavor.

Notes

For best flavor, shred your own cheddar cheese from a block instead of using pre-shredded cheese.
Use avocado oil or another neutral oil for toasting breadcrumbs to avoid overpowering the dish’s flavor.
Feel free to substitute Italian seasoning with dried oregano or basil for a different herby twist.
Ensure to cook pasta al dente so it holds up well when mixed with the cheese sauce.
This recipe can be made vegetarian by using vegetarian-friendly cheese options.