Can I Use Cottage Cheese Instead of Soft Cheese?

Absolutely. In many cases, cottage cheese can replace ricotta, cream cheese, or mascarpone in both savory and sweet recipes. In cottage mac and cheese , it brings the same creaminess you’d expect from soft cheese—but lighter, with more protein and fewer calories. Just make sure to blend it if you’re looking for a smoother finish.

What Does Gordon Ramsay Put in His Mac and Cheese?

Gordon Ramsay’s style is bold and layered, often using béchamel, various cheeses, and a pinch of heat. But if you're going for a simpler, cleaner option, cottage mac and cheese delivers a similar richness with far less effort. You won’t need a dozen ingredients or fancy tools—just good-quality cottage cheese, your favorite pasta, and a cheese combo you love. To mimic that gourmet feel, try adding smoked paprika, a touch of Dijon mustard, or even caramelized onions. These tiny upgrades make a big difference. And if you're looking to impress, pair this dish with honey buffalo chicken and mac and cheese for a flavor-packed dinner.

Can Cottage Cheese Replace Milk in Mac and Cheese?

Yes, and it’s one of the smartest swaps you can make. If you're out of milk or avoiding it for dietary reasons, cottage cheese is a protein-rich, creamy alternative. In cottage mac and cheese , cottage cheese replaces milk to create a thick, flavorful base that clings to noodles better than plain dairy ever could. Just blend it smooth or mix it directly with the pasta while it’s warm. The texture is rich and satisfying, especially when paired with sharp cheddar or a bit of parmesan. This trick is especially handy if you’re aiming for more filling meals or want to reduce processed ingredients. For another clever protein-packed swap, check out our protein cottage cheese cookie dough .

Cottage Mac and Cheese – 1 Simple Trick for Amazing Flavor

Description

Creamy, comforting, and made with humble ingredients—this cottage mac and cheese delivers big flavor in minutes with no roux, no cream, and no fuss.

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (elbow or shell)
1 cup cottage cheese (small curd preferred)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded parmesan or mozzarella
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Splash of warm pasta water or milk for blending
Optional: smoked paprika, pesto, red pepper flakes, or chopped jalapeños for flavor variations

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Instructions

Boil pasta until al dente, drain and set aside.
Blend cottage cheese with garlic powder, mustard powder (if using), salt, pepper, and a splash of warm pasta water or milk until smooth.
Return pasta to pot and stir in cottage cheese mixture.
Fold in shredded cheddar and parmesan until melted and creamy.
Optional: Transfer to baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil or bake until bubbly and golden.
Serve warm. Reheat leftovers with a splash of milk for best texture.

Notes

Use small-curd cottage cheese for a smoother texture. Customize with add-ins like pesto, paprika, or hot sauce for flavor boosts.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop or Baked
Cuisine: Comfort Food