Protein Packed Mac n Cheese

1 box protein pasta (or regular pasta)

1 cup cottage cheese

½ cup mozzarella cheese

½ cup cheddar cheese

1 T arrowroot powder or cornstarch

½ teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon garlic powder

Salt & pepper to taste

1 -2 T butter

1-2 T milk, only if needed

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, for garnish

Boil water and cook pasta according to package directions until pasta is al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the cheese sauce. In a food processor, combine cottage cheese, mozzarella cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, arrowroot powder (or cornstarch) & seasonings, minus the red pepper flakes. Blend until smooth and creamy.

In a large pan over medium heat, melt 1–2 T of butter. Add cooked pasta and pour the cheese sauce over top.

Stir gently over medium-low heat until warmed through and thickened slightly. If the sauce is too thick you can add a bit of milk 1 tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency. You can also add an additional ¼ cup of cheese here to make it extra gooey!

Top with red pepper flakes and serve hot! You can also sprinkle with fresh parsley or a drizzle of hot honey if desired.