Double-Cheese Macaroni

(Photo courtesy of Taste of Home Magazine)

Rating: B+
Makes 12 1 Cup Servings


Recipe:

Ingredients-
     1 pkg (16 oz) elbow macaroni
     3 cups (24 ox) 4% cottage cheese
     1/2 cup butter or margarine cubed
     1/2 cup flour
     1 tsp salt
     1/2 tsp white pepper
     1/4 tsp garlic salt
     3 cups half-and-half cream
     1 cup milk
     4 cups (16 oz) shredded cheddar cheese

TOPPING:
     1 cup dry bread crumbs
     1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted

Directions-
Cook macaroni according to package directions.

Meanwhile, place cottage cheese in a food processor (or blender); cover and process until smooth.  Set aside.

In a large saucepan, melt butter.  Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic salt until smooth.  Gradually add cream and milk.  Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 3 minutes or until thickened.

Drain macaroni; transfer to a large bowl.

Add the cheddar cheese, cottage cheese, and white sauce; toss to coat. 

Transfer to a greased 13x9" baking dish. (Dish should be full)

Combine bread crumbs and butter; sprinkle over the top.  Bake, uncovered, at 400 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly.

Source: Taste of Home Magazine, December/January 2009

NOTES:
1.  Funny me, I forgot to buy cheddar cheese, so I used mozzarella (not too bad since it's healthier).
2.  I added Parmesan cheese to the step when you add all the cheeses to the noodles.
3.  I ALWAYS use seasoned bread crumbs... They just add a great taste!