Description
This Whipped Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe offers a creamy, healthier twist on the classic comfort food by blending cottage cheese and sharp cheddar into a smooth sauce. Topped with a crispy, seasoned panko breadcrumb crust, this quick and easy meal is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz. pasta (any kind works)
Cheese Sauce
- ½ cup full-fat cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
Topping
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons avocado oil
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes depending on pasta type. Once cooked, strain the pasta and transfer it to a serving bowl; avoid putting it back into the hot pot to prevent overcooking.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Add the full-fat cottage cheese to a high-speed food processor or blender and blend on high until smooth and creamy. Next, add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese along with ½ teaspoon sea salt and continue blending until the mixture is fully smooth and well combined. Set the sauce aside.
- Make the Breadcrumb Topping: In a skillet, heat 2 teaspoons avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Toss frequently to evenly brown the breadcrumbs until they become crunchy and golden, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Combine and Serve: Pour the whipped cheese sauce over the cooked pasta in the serving bowl and stir gently until the pasta is completely coated. Sprinkle the crispy breadcrumb topping evenly over the mac and cheese. Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy texture and crunchy topping at their best.
Notes
- Use full-fat cottage cheese for the creamiest texture; low-fat versions may result in a thinner sauce.
- Any pasta shape works, but smaller shapes like elbow macaroni or shells help hold the sauce better.
- For an extra cheesy flavor, use sharp or extra sharp cheddar cheese.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts.
- Serve immediately as the breadcrumb topping will lose its crunch if left to sit.
