Cottage Cheese Macaroni and Cheese
Cottage Cheese Macaroni and Cheese is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 450 calories per serving. Recipe by I Heart Vegetables on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 35 min
Cost: $7.73 total, $1.93 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup Cottage Cheese (full‑fat or low‑fat, plain)
- 1 cup Milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
- 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (helps thicken the sauce)
- 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese (shredded; sharp flavor gives depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 1/4 teaspoon Paprika (adds subtle smoky note)
- 1/8 teaspoon Dry Mustard Powder (optional; brightens flavor)
- 12 ounces Whole Wheat Pasta or Chickpea Pasta (any short shape like elbows or shells; chickpea pasta adds extra protein)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 8‑10 minutes. Drain in a colander and set aside.
Time: PT12M
Temperature: 212°F
Blend the Cheese Sauce Base
While the pasta cooks, combine cottage cheese, milk, cornstarch, shredded sharp cheddar, salt, black pepper, paprika, and mustard powder in a blender. Blend on high for about 30 seconds until completely smooth.
Time: PT2M
Thicken the Sauce
Pour the blended mixture into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon; the sauce will begin to bubble and thicken after 3‑5 minutes. Once it coats the back of the spoon, remove from heat.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: Medium heat
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan with the cheese sauce. Toss gently to coat every piece. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: Medium heat
Serve
Spoon the creamy mac and cheese into bowls. Garnish with a pinch of extra paprika or fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 450
- Protein
- 20g
- Carbohydrates
- 55g
- Fat
- 15g
- Fiber
- 6g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, High‑protein, Contains gluten (unless chickpea pasta is used)
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten (if whole wheat pasta used)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Cottage Cheese: Ricotta cheese, Cream cheese
- Instead of Milk: 2% milk, Almond milk, Soy milk
- Instead of Cornstarch: All‑purpose flour, Arrowroot powder
- Instead of Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Gruyère, Aged Gouda, Mozzarella
- Instead of Salt: Kosher salt, Sea salt
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper
- Instead of Paprika: Smoked paprika, Cayenne pepper (use less)
- Instead of Dry Mustard Powder: Dijon mustard (1 tsp)
- Instead of Whole Wheat Pasta or Chickpea Pasta: Regular pasta, Gluten‑free pasta
Equipment Needed
- Blender
- Saucepan
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Wooden Spoon
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Grater
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Cooking pasta al dente prevents mushiness when combined with the sauce.
- Blending cottage cheese with milk and cornstarch creates a smooth base; any lumps will affect texture.
- Thickening the sauce over medium heat while stirring constantly avoids scorching.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a sharp cheddar for the deepest flavor; a blend of cheddar and Gruyère adds extra richness.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for a subtle warm note.
- For extra protein, choose chickpea pasta and consider adding a handful of cooked lentils.
Troubleshooting
Sauce is too thin after cooking.
Create a slurry of 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tsp cold water and whisk it into the simmering sauce; cook another 2 minutes.
Sauce looks grainy or curdled.
Blend the sauce longer or use an immersion blender to achieve a smoother texture; ensure the heat is not too high.
Pasta is overcooked and mushy.
Cook pasta al dente, then immediately drain and rinse briefly with hot water to stop cooking.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk.
Freezer: Not recommended; cheese may separate and texture changes.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Blend the cheese sauce base up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate; reheat gently before adding pasta.
- Cook the pasta ahead, toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, and store in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of mac and cheese in American cuisine?
Macaroni and cheese originated in 18th‑century Europe but became an iconic American comfort food after Thomas Jefferson popularized macaroni and introduced Parmesan cheese to the United States. Over time, it evolved into a staple of school cafeterias, family dinners, and Southern soul food, symbolizing homey, indulgent comfort.
How does the traditional American mac and cheese differ from the high‑protein version featured on the YouTube channel I Heart Vegetables?
The classic version relies on heavy cream or butter for richness, while the I Heart Vegetables recipe boosts protein by incorporating cottage cheese and optionally chickpea pasta. This approach keeps the dish creamy yet lighter, aligning with the channel’s plant‑forward, health‑focused philosophy.
What regional variations of mac and cheese exist within the United States?
In the South, mac and cheese often includes a breadcrumb topping and is baked until golden. In New England, a béchamel‑based sauce with sharp cheddar is common. The Midwest favors a stovetop version with extra cheese, while vegan adaptations replace dairy with cashew or almond sauces.
What occasions or celebrations is mac and cheese traditionally associated with in American culture?
Mac and cheese is a go‑to side for holiday meals like Thanksgiving and Christmas, a comfort food for family gatherings, and a popular dish at potlucks, school lunches, and casual game‑day parties across the United States.
What other vegetable‑focused dishes pair well with this cottage cheese mac and cheese from I Heart Vegetables?
Pair it with roasted Brussels sprouts, sautéed kale with garlic, or a crisp mixed green salad with a lemon‑tahini dressing. The vegetable side balances the richness of the cheese sauce and stays true to I Heart Vegetables’ plant‑centric style.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Super Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese?
Common errors include overcooking the pasta, using high heat that scorches the cheese sauce, and not blending the cottage cheese thoroughly, which can leave lumps. Follow the medium‑heat simmer and blend steps carefully for a silky texture.
Why does this recipe use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the sauce?
Cornstarch thickens at a lower temperature and creates a glossy, smooth finish without adding extra floury flavor. It also keeps the sauce lighter, which complements the high‑protein cottage cheese base.
Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can blend the sauce base up to a day ahead and refrigerate it. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed, then stir in freshly cooked pasta. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What does the YouTube channel I Heart Vegetables specialize in?
The YouTube channel I Heart Vegetables specializes in plant‑forward, vegetable‑centric recipes that emphasize nutrition, protein balance, and approachable cooking techniques for home cooks.
How does the YouTube channel I Heart Vegetables' approach to vegetarian cooking differ from other vegetarian cooking channels?
I Heart Vegetables focuses on integrating high‑protein ingredients like cottage cheese, legumes, and chickpea pasta into classic comfort dishes, whereas many other vegetarian channels emphasize purely plant‑based or vegan preparations. This channel bridges comfort and health by adding dairy‑based protein while keeping vegetables central.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
