When I first tried making this creamy cottage cheese mac and cheese, I was skeptical. I mean, cottage cheese in pasta? But trust me—one bite in, and I was completely on board. It’s got that gooey, cheesy vibe we all crave, but without leaving you slumped on the couch post-dinner. I like to think of this dish as my weeknight magic trick. High protein, low guilt, and tastes like you’ve been stirring a roux for hours (you haven’t). The blend of tender pasta, melty cheese, and creamy cottage cheese hits just right. It’s not trying too hard—and that’s what makes it perfect. If you’re hunting for low calorie dinner recipes that don’t taste like cardboard, give this one a shot. It’s kid-approved, grown-up approved, and stomach-happy approved. You can even toss in some broccoli or spice it up with a hit of chili flakes. Either way, it’s comfort food you won’t regret.

1) Key Takeaways
2) Easy Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe
3) Ingredients for Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese
4) How to Make Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese
5) Tips for Making Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese
6) Making Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time
7) Storing Leftover Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese
8) Try these Dinner recipes next!
9) Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese
10) Nutrition

1) Key Takeaways

This creamy mac and cheese skips the heavy cream and uses cottage cheese for a lighter touch.
It’s a protein-packed version of the comfort food we all know and love.
You can make it in under 20 minutes with basic pantry staples.
Works great as a meal prep dinner for busy weekdays.

2) Easy Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe

Let me guess. You’re craving comfort food, but your jeans are giving you the side-eye. I’ve been there. That’s how this low calorie dinner recipes idea became a go-to in my kitchen. It brings the creamy, cheesy goodness without sending you straight into a food coma.

Using cottage cheese might sound like a curveball, but once it melts into that pasta, you’ll see why it deserves a spot on your weekly menu. This mac and cheese recipe makes dinner feel like a hug, but lighter and packed with way more protein. It’s part genius, part lazy-cook magic.

If you’ve ever stared at your fridge wondering how to make something filling, tasty, and a little healthier, this is your answer. Cottage cheese recipes have been blowing up for a reason. They work. They’re smart. And this one? This one tastes like real food, not a compromise.

3) Ingredients for Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

8 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice — Go classic with elbows or get wild with shells. Either way, you want a pasta shape that holds sauce in all the right places.

1 cup low-fat cottage cheese — This is where the protein sneaks in. It blends into something so creamy you won’t believe it’s not cream.

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt — Adds a smooth, tangy layer that pairs beautifully with the sharpness of the cheese. You could almost eat this with a spoon. Almost.

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese — I like sharp cheddar for its bold punch, but you do you. Just make sure it melts well and makes you smile.

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese — Brings a salty kick that elevates the entire dish. Trust me, it’s not just for spaghetti night anymore.

1/4 tsp garlic powder — A tiny pinch, but it works hard to wake up the whole dish.

1/4 tsp onion powder — Not overpowering, just enough to give a savory nudge.

Salt and pepper to taste — Go slow here. Taste as you stir. A little goes a long way.

Optional: steamed broccoli, chili flakes, or hot sauce — Broccoli mac and cheese recipe lovers, this is your moment. Add greens, spice, or a little heat.

4) How to Make Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

Step 1. Cook your pasta in salted water. Don’t skimp on the salt. Think of it as the first layer of flavor. Once it’s just shy of al dente, drain it and set it aside.

Step 2. In a blender, mix the cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Looks weird now, but trust the process.

Step 3. Toss the pasta back into the pot while it’s still warm. Pour your cottage cheese blend over the pasta and stir gently over low heat.

Step 4. Sprinkle in your shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Stir slowly until everything melts together. You’re looking for that rich, creamy pull of cheese with every stir.

Step 5. Taste, adjust the salt and pepper, and fold in your extras like steamed broccoli or chili flakes if using. You just made a grown-up version of a childhood classic.

5) Tips for Making Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

Use quality cheese. This isn’t the time to go for the mystery bag of “cheese product.” Real cheddar and fresh Parmesan make a big difference in both taste and texture.

Don’t overcook the pasta. Keep it al dente so it holds its shape and gives your low calorie dinner recipes a bit of bite. Mushy noodles don’t belong here.

Let your ingredients come to room temp before blending. If your cottage cheese and yogurt are straight from the fridge, the sauce might seize when it hits the warm pot. A little patience helps a lot here.

6) Making Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time

Meal prep fans, this one’s for you. You can make the whole thing ahead and keep it in the fridge for a few days. The sauce thickens slightly but still stays creamy.

If you’re reheating it, add a splash of milk or even a spoonful of Greek yogurt to loosen it up again. Heat it low and slow. No microwaving into rubber territory, please.

This recipe fits perfectly in your low calorie dinner recipes rotation, especially when you need something quick after work or school. Make it in advance and reheat when you need it most.

7) Storing Leftover Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay good for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, stir in a splash of milk and reheat gently on the stove.

If you’re someone who packs lunch the night before, this dish holds up well in a thermos too. It’s still creamy and satisfying even the next day.

Low calorie dinner recipes don’t have to taste like cardboard. This one reheats like a dream and keeps you full without feeling heavy.

8) Try these Dinner recipes next!

9) Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese