If you are looking for a comforting dish that brings together creamy goodness and wholesome ingredients, you will love this Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe. It brilliantly balances the rich, cheesy flavors you crave with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli florets, all wrapped in a luscious, velvety sauce made extra special by cottage cheese. This recipe is a perfect weeknight winner that feels indulgent without any heaviness, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ten clear glass and white bowls arranged on a white marbled surface, each filled with different ingredients. Starting from the top left, there's a large bowl filled with shredded pale yellow cheese, next to two small glass bowls containing a white powder and light brown mustard. Below them is a medium bowl with yellow dry elbow pasta. To the left is a bowl of white cottage cheese, and below it, a large bowl packed with green broccoli florets. To the right of the pasta bowl is a small glass bowl with finely grated white cheese, and just below it a white plate filled with shredded light beige cooked chicken. To the bottom right, a small white bowl holds tan-colored seasoning powder, and next to it is a clear glass measuring cup filled with white milk. The bowls and plate are organized neatly, all visible from an overhead view. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe is a celebration of simple yet purposeful ingredients that come together to create such a satisfying dish. Each component highlights a specific texture or flavor, contributing to a harmonious and colorful final plate.

8 ounces pasta: Choose ziti, elbow, shells, or cavatappi for their perfect shape to hold the sauce.
12 ounces fresh broccoli florets: Chopped into small bite-sized pieces to add a fresh crunch and vibrant green color.
1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, freshly shredded, divided: For that classic sharpness and creamy melt in every bite.
1 cup full-fat cottage cheese: This is the secret to the luscious, smooth sauce that feels rich but light.
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a subtle nutty depth and enhances the overall cheesiness.
1 cup milk, low-fat or full-fat: Balances creaminess while keeping the sauce silky and smooth.
1 teaspoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce perfectly without clumps.
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Elevates the flavor with a mild tang and complexity.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a gentle savory punch.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Brings warmth and depth to the sauce.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 6 ounces): Provides protein and hearty texture, making the dish truly satisfying.

How to Make Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Cook Pasta and Broccoli

Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions for perfect al dente texture. When there are just 3 to 4 minutes left, toss in the chopped broccoli florets to soften them lightly while retaining their vibrant green color. Before draining, be sure to reserve ½ cup of the pasta water as it will help adjust the sauce’s consistency later. Drain everything and set it aside for the next step.

Step 2: Blend the Cheese Sauce

In a blender, combine the creamy cottage cheese, milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar, Parmesan, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Blend until the mixture is silky smooth and luscious. This step is the magic behind the velvety texture that sets this dish apart from traditional mac and cheese recipes.

Step 3: Thicken the Cheese Sauce

Pour the blended cheese sauce into a large pot over medium-low heat. Stir frequently and cook for about 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken beautifully without burning. Once thickened, stir in the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese so it melts evenly throughout, adding extra gooey richness to the sauce.

Step 4: Combine and Season

Add the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli into the pot with your thickened cheese sauce. Carefully mix everything until each bite is coated with creamy goodness. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if needed, making sure each element shines through and complements the others perfectly.

How to Serve Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

A white bowl filled with creamy pasta made of light yellow spiral macaroni on the bottom layer. Bright green broccoli pieces are mixed evenly throughout, some covered with white creamy sauce. Shredded pale yellow cheese is sprinkled on top, adding texture. There are small bits of light-colored chicken scattered in the layers, and black pepper is lightly dotted across the dish. A silver fork picks up some pasta and broccoli from the right side of the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a tan bowl filled with coarse salt and pepper in the top left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top for a fresh pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness. A light dusting of extra Parmesan or a crack of black pepper can also raise the presentation and flavor profile with minimal effort.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette, balancing the richness with a refreshing bite. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls also make excellent accompaniments for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy family meal, serve it straight from the pot to keep it warm and inviting. If you want to impress guests, bake the assembled mac and cheese in a casserole dish topped with breadcrumbs and a little cheese for a golden, crunchy crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld nicely, making it even better the next day. Just give it a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

You can freeze this mac and cheese dish, but be aware that the texture of the broccoli might soften further. Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess. Microwaving is also fine; just cover it to keep moisture in and stir occasionally for even warming.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cottage cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can use low-fat cottage cheese if you prefer, but full-fat cottage cheese will give you a richer, creamier sauce. Either way, it still turns out delicious.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or extra broccoli for additional heartiness and flavor.

What type of pasta works best in this recipe?

Pasta shapes like ziti, elbow, shells, or cavatappi work best as they hold onto the sauce well in every bite, but feel free to use your favorite pasta.

Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?

You can substitute with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder flavor, but cheddar offers that classic sharpness that balances perfectly with the cottage cheese base.

How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water or milk to loosen it up. For a thicker sauce, cook it a little longer over low heat or add a pinch more cornstarch dissolved in cold water before blending.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe has truly won my heart because it combines comfort, nutrition, and vibrancy in one bowl. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a busy day, easy to whip up, and pleasing for every member of the family. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how this delightful twist on a classic dish becomes a new favorite in your kitchen too!

Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe