Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe
Discover the creamiest high-protein mac and cheese made with cottage cheese and chickpea pasta—a delicious twist on a classic that you won't want to miss!
Servings: 4 people
Equipment
- Blender or food processor
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Baking dish (optional, if baking)
Ingredients
- 8 ounces Chickpea cavatappi pasta
- 1 cup cottage cheese preferably small curd
- 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- ½ cup Gruyère cheese shredded (optional for extra creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option
- 1½ cups milk whole or 2%
- ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the Banza chickpea cavatappi pasta.
- Cook according to the package instructions until al dente (about 7-9 minutes).
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Blend the Cottage Cheese:
- Place the cottage cheese in a blender or food processor.
- Blend until smooth to eliminate curds and achieve a creamy texture.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Whisk in the flour to create a roux.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns light golden.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Add the blended cottage cheese to the saucepan.
- Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
Add the Cheeses and Spices:
- Reduce the heat to low.
- Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the dry mustard powder and garlic powder.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce.
- Stir until the pasta is thoroughly coated with the sauce.
Optional Baking Step:
- If you'd like a golden crust on top:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle additional shredded cheese or breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned.
Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, high-protein mac and cheese!
