Introduction
If you’re looking for a creamy, high-protein pasta dish that’s both delicious and nutritious, this Cottage Cheese Pasta is about to become your new favorite! I love finding ways to create indulgent, comforting meals that don’t leave me feeling heavy or sluggish. That’s exactly why this recipe is a staple in my kitchen—it’s rich, creamy, and packed with protein without needing heavy cream or butter. The secret? Blended cottage cheese transforms into a velvety sauce that coats every pasta strand beautifully.
I first stumbled upon this idea when I was experimenting with healthier alternatives to Alfredo sauce. I wanted something equally creamy but without the excess fat and calories. After one bite, I was hooked! This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to boost their protein intake while still enjoying a bowl of satisfying pasta. Plus, it’s easy, budget-friendly, and can be made in under 30 minutes!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- High in Protein – Thanks to cottage cheese, this pasta is protein-packed, making it a great post-workout meal or a hearty dinner option.
- Super Creamy Without Heavy Cream – Blending cottage cheese creates an unbelievably smooth sauce, giving you that indulgent texture without added fats.
- Quick & Easy – Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes.
- Budget-Friendly & Accessible – Uses simple, affordable ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.
- Kid-Friendly – Even picky eaters love this dish because of its creamy, cheesy taste!
- Customizable – Works great with different types of pasta and add-ins like spinach, roasted vegetables, or lean proteins.
Equipment Needed
To make this recipe effortlessly, you’ll need:
- Blender or Food Processor – To create the smooth, creamy cottage cheese sauce.
- Large Pot – For boiling the pasta.
- Strainer – To drain the pasta.
- Skillet or Saucepan – For warming up the sauce and combining everything.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons – To get precise ingredient measurements.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 1 cup (240g) cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk (or unsweetened almond milk for a lighter option)
- 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese (grated, plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup spinach or cherry tomatoes (optional, for extra nutrition)
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.
- Swap Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast to make it vegetarian-friendly.
- Try ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese for a different texture.
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
2. Make the Cottage Cheese Sauce
While the pasta cooks, blend cottage cheese, milk, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning in a food processor until smooth and creamy. This should take about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
3. Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Combine the Sauce & Pasta
Pour the blended cottage cheese mixture into the skillet with the garlic. Stir to heat it through, about 2 minutes. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Add Final Touches & Serve
If using spinach or cherry tomatoes, stir them in now and cook for 1-2 minutes until softened. Remove from heat and garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil. Serve immediately!
Tips
- For extra creaminess, blend in a teaspoon of olive oil or a small amount of Greek yogurt.
- Reheat leftovers on low heat with a splash of milk to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.
- Use a high-speed blender for the smoothest cottage cheese sauce.
- Add protein by tossing in grilled chicken or shrimp.
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
- Keto-Friendly: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based cottage cheese and almond milk.
- Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Serving Ideas
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Pair with garlic bread or roasted vegetables.
- Enjoy with a refreshing lemonade or iced tea.
FAQs
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, mix it with freshly cooked pasta and warm it up.
2. Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Absolutely! Both full-fat and low-fat cottage cheese work well, but full-fat creates a richer texture.
3. What pasta works best?
Short pastas like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni hold the sauce best, but spaghetti or fettuccine also work beautifully.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat with a splash of milk.
5. Can I freeze this?
I don’t recommend freezing, as dairy-based sauces can separate. Instead, refrigerate and consume within a few days.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: ~22g
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Fat: ~10g
- Fiber: ~4g
Concluding Thoughts
This Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta is proof that you don’t need heavy cream to enjoy a rich, indulgent, and satisfying meal. It’s high in protein, incredibly easy to make, and packed with flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious meal to fuel your day, this dish is a must-try. Give it a go, and let me know what you think in the comments!
Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Recipe – High-Protein & Delicious!
Description
This Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta is the perfect combination of indulgence and nutrition. The smooth, velvety sauce is made by blending cottage cheese, creating a luscious texture without the need for heavy cream. Packed with protein and simple ingredients, this dish is an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a post-workout meal that satisfies cravings while keeping you full and energized.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
-
2. Make the Cottage Cheese Sauce
While the pasta cooks, blend cottage cheese, milk, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning in a food processor until smooth and creamy. This should take about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
-
3. Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
4. Combine the Sauce & Pasta
Pour the blended cottage cheese mixture into the skillet with the garlic. Stir to heat it through, about 2 minutes. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
-
5. Add Final Touches & Serve
If using spinach or cherry tomatoes, stir them in now and cook for 1-2 minutes until softened. Remove from heat and garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil. Serve immediately!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4 ServingCalories:350kcalTotal Fat:10gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol:25mgSodium:400mgPotassium:350mgTotal Carbohydrate:45gDietary Fiber: 4gSugars: 5gProtein:22g
Note
- For extra creaminess, blend in a teaspoon of olive oil or a small amount of Greek yogurt.
- Reheat leftovers on low heat with a splash of milk to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.
- Use a high-speed blender for the smoothest cottage cheese sauce.
- Add protein by tossing in grilled chicken or shrimp.
