Healthy Mac and Cheese Recipe
This Healthy Mac and Cheese recipe offers a creamy, comforting twist on the classic dish by using blended cottage cheese for added protein and lower fat content. Ready in just 20 minutes, it's a delicious and nutritious meal perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz elbow pasta noodles
Sauce
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1.5 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1:1 flour)
- ½ cup vegetable or chicken broth
- ¾ cup low-fat milk (or any milk)
- ½ cup cottage cheese (blended)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the noodles. Prepare the elbow pasta according to the package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Make the simple roux. In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add 1.5 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 4–5 minutes until a smooth golden-brown roux forms—take care not to burn it.
- Blend the cottage cheese. While the roux is cooking, place the cottage cheese in a high-speed blender and blend until it is completely smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Build the sauce. Gradually whisk the broth into the roux, followed by the milk. Keep whisking to prevent lumps and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, avoiding a rolling boil, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the first round of cheese. Reduce heat to low, then stir in the blended cottage cheese and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Whisk continuously until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.
- Add the remaining cheddar. Stir in the rest of the shredded cheddar cheese and continue whisking until the sauce becomes completely creamy and melted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine. Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked noodles and toss until every piece is evenly coated.
- Taste and serve. Adjust seasoning with more salt if needed and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Using blended cottage cheese adds protein and reduces fat compared to traditional recipes.
- You can substitute gluten-free flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
- For a richer flavor, feel free to use whole milk or add a little cream.
- Be careful not to let the roux burn to avoid a bitter taste.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the best creamy texture as the sauce thickens upon standing.
Find it online: https://cozyplatter.com/healthy-mac-and-cheese-recipe/