Cottage Cheese Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cottage Cheese Pasta is a creamy, protein-packed dish that delivers comfort and nutrition in every bite. With its smooth, tangy sauce and simple ingredients, it’s an easy go-to meal for busy weeknights or a quick lunch. The cottage cheese melts into a rich, velvety coating for the pasta, offering a healthier twist on traditional creamy sauces.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pastacottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)garlic (minced)olive oilgrated parmesan cheesefresh spinach or basil (optional)saltblack pepperred pepper flakes (optional for heat)lemon zest (optional for brightness)

directions

Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.

In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, sautéed garlic, a splash of pasta water, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Return the drained pasta to the pot or a pan on low heat. Pour the cottage cheese sauce over the pasta and stir to coat evenly.

Add grated parmesan and a little more pasta water if needed for a smoother texture.

Toss in fresh spinach or basil until just wilted, if using.

Season with additional salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and lemon zest to taste.

Serve warm with extra parmesan on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 2-3 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesTotal time: 20 minutes

Variations

Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein.

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted veggies for a heartier meal.

Blend in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.

Try cottage cheese with herbs for a flavor boost.

Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a dairy-free version.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Cottage Cheese Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To reheat, add a splash of water or milk and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, both full-fat and low-fat versions work, though full-fat offers a creamier texture.

Will the cottage cheese curdle?

No, blending the cottage cheese creates a smooth sauce that doesn’t curdle when heated gently.

Can I make this vegan?

Use a plant-based cottage cheese substitute and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

Can I freeze Cottage Cheese Pasta?

Freezing is not recommended as the sauce texture may change when thawed.

What kind of pasta works best?

Short pastas like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni hold the creamy sauce well.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, store the blended sauce in the fridge for up to 2 days and heat gently before mixing with pasta.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for gluten-free diets.

Conclusion

Cottage Cheese Pasta is the perfect blend of healthy and satisfying, offering creamy comfort with a nutritious edge. Quick to make and endlessly versatile, it’s a delicious addition to your regular meal rotation. Whether you’re looking for a protein-rich meal or a lighter take on pasta night, this dish has you covered.

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