Protein Mac and Cheese with Cottage Cheese
Introduction
Protein Mac and Cheese with Cottage Cheese is a delicious twist on the classic comfort food. It combines the creamy goodness of cheese with the extra protein from cottage cheese and your choice of meat or tofu. This dish is not only tasty but also a great option if you want something hearty and filling.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for those who want a nutritious and satisfying meal without sacrificing flavor. Using cottage cheese adds protein while keeping the dish creamy and rich. It’s an excellent choice for families, busy individuals, or anyone who loves mac and cheese but wants to make it healthier. Plus, it’s an easy dish to prepare!
How to Make Protein Mac and Cheese with Cottage Cheese
Making Protein Mac and Cheese with Cottage Cheese is quite simple. Just follow the steps below, and you will have a tasty meal ready in no time!
Ingredients:
- 140 grams (5 oz.) macaroni
- 200 grams (1 cup) cottage cheese
- 20 grams (2 tbsp) cheddar cheese
- 20 grams (2 tbsp) Parmesan cheese (or more cheddar)
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) preferred milk
- 1 tbsp preferred flour
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Chicken, preferred meat, or tofu (cooked and diced)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 180ºC (360ºF).
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, about 1 to 2 minutes less than the package directions recommend. The pasta will cook further in the oven. Once cooked, drain it, transfer to a large bowl, and drizzle with olive oil.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the protein Mac and Cheese sauce. In a food processor, combine cottage cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, milk, olive oil, salt, and pepper (to taste). Blend until you get a smooth cream.
- Add the cheesy cream to a pan with the cooked pasta (and optionally cooked chicken, meat, or tofu). Stir well until everything is combined, and cook over low to medium heat until the sauce thickens. Adjust with more salt and pepper if necessary.
- Transfer the protein Mac and Cheese to a greased baking dish, sprinkle the top with more cheese, and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake the cottage cheese Mac and Cheese in the hot oven for 10 to 15 minutes at 180ºC (360ºF) until the cheese has melted and the top is crispy. Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Protein Mac and Cheese with Cottage Cheese
This dish is best served warm and can be enjoyed as a main meal or a side dish. Pair it with a fresh salad or some steamed veggies for a complete meal.
How to Store Protein Mac and Cheese with Cottage Cheese
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or bake it in the oven until heated through.
Tips to Make Protein Mac and Cheese with Cottage Cheese
- Be sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Feel free to add extra seasonings, like garlic powder or paprika, for more flavor.
- For a creamier texture, you can blend the cottage cheese longer to make it even smoother.
Variation
You can easily change this recipe by adding different types of cheese, like mozzarella or gouda. You can also switch up the protein by using ground beef, shrimp, or even a variety of veggies for a vegetarian option.
FAQs
1. Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute regular macaroni with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
2. How can I make this dish vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute cottage cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and omit any meat. A plant-based protein or tofu can be added for extra protein.
3. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Just prepare and portion it out into containers for easy meals throughout the week.
Enjoy your delicious and protein-packed Protein Mac and Cheese with Cottage Cheese!
