Cottage cheese is having a moment, and I, for one, am thrilled about it. I've found myself adding it to everything from pancakes to queso dip. It's a flavorful way to boost protein and can be pureed until the texture is silky smooth. I decided to give homemade cottage cheese a try, and I have never looked back. Our Test Kitchen perfected the easy recipe, and there are no hard-to-source ingredients or techniques. Just milk, vinegar, salt, and cream. Here's how to make cottage cheese at home.

Homemade Cottage Cheese Ingredients

Here's a quick look at the ingredients you'll need to make cottage cheese at home. Chances are you have most of them at home already.

• Milk: Our Test Kitchen prefers to use whole milk when making homemade cottage cheese. You'll need a half gallon.
• Vinegar: Use plain white vinegar to make cottage cheese.
• Salt: We tested this recipe with kosher salt.
• Cream: Adding half-and-half just before serving helps the cottage cheese taste rich and creamy.

How Much Cottage Cheese Does a Gallon of Milk Make?

A gallon of milk will product three cups of cottage cheese. Simply double our recipe to make that much.

How to Store Homemade Cottage Cheese

Homemade cottage cheese is best enjoyed within three days of making it. Store the cottage cheese in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also put it to good use in our favorite cottage cheese recipes.

How to Make Cottage Cheese More Flavorful

There are several ways to serve homemade cottage cheese. We tapped our recipe testers and editors for their favorites.

• Top with ground black pepper and serve with chips for dipping.
• Add fresh berries and a drizzle of honey.
• Spread on toast and top with fresh cherry tomatoes, salt, pepper, and basil.
• Top with granola and drizzle with maple syrup.
• Sprinkle with garlic and herb seasoning and use as a dip for veggies.
• Whip with ranch powder and a drizzle of milk for a higher-protein sauce or dip.
  

What Is the Best Seasoning for Cottage Cheese?

There are many seasonings you can add to your batch of homemade cottage cheese. Here are a few of our Test Kitchen's favorite ideas.

• Fresh herbs like dill, chives, parsley, or tarragon.
• Sweeteners like jam, honey, or maple syrup.
• Veggies like green onion or shallot.
• Spices like garlic powder, onion salt, or black pepper.
• Mix-ins like olive oil, diced veggies, or berries.