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Easy Protein Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese First Image

Creamy Cheddar Pasta


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  • Author: Chef John
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A deliciously creamy cheddar pasta dish that is easy to make and satisfying.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces cooked macaroni pasta
  • 1 cup cottage cheese – I recommend full-fat cottage cheese
  • 1 cup 2% or whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions, then drain (do not rinse) and set aside.
  2. Add the cottage cheese, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to a high-speed blender and blend until smooth (about 20 seconds).
  3. Heat a large pot or skillet to medium heat, and add the cheese sauce to the pan.
  4. Stir in the cornstarch and whisk or stir the sauce until it starts to thicken (about 2-3 minutes).
  5. Then stir in the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese until it is fully melted.
  6. Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper if needed, then stir in the cooked pasta noodles.
  7. Coat the noodles well in the sauce so they are all nice and cheesy.
  8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • This dish can be customized with additional ingredients like vegetables or proteins.
  • Make sure to taste the sauce before adding it to the pasta to adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg