Cottage cheese pasta is a simple yet delicious way to elevate your weeknight meals. The creamy cottage cheese sauce pairs perfectly with your favorite pasta, delivering a comforting dish that’s loaded with protein and flavor. Add fresh herbs, veggies, or even a touch of spice to make it your own.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work well)
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt, or to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: roasted vegetables or cooked chicken for added protein
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet or saucepan
- Blender or food processor
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. Blend the Sauce:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta water. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Sauté Garlic:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Combine Sauce and Pasta:
- Reduce the heat to low and pour the blended cottage cheese mixture into the skillet. Stir to combine with the garlic. Add the cooked pasta and toss until well coated.
5. Season and Serve:
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and additional Parmesan, if desired. Serve hot.
Tips
- Add Veggies: Stir in steamed spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrients and flavor.
- Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon to make it heartier.
- Make it Zesty: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a fresh, tangy twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences.
Cottage cheese pasta is a quick, nutritious, and incredibly creamy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its versatility and delicious flavor, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Customize it to your liking and enjoy a comforting bowl of creamy goodness!
Cottage Cheese Pasta Recipe
Enjoy a creamy and protein-packed Cottage Cheese Pasta recipe that’s quick, easy, and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. This light yet satisfying dish is customizable and ready in just 20 minutes!
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet or saucepan
- Blender or food processor
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 8 oz 225 g pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work well)
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pasta water reserved
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt or to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: roasted vegetables or cooked chicken for added protein
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Blend the Sauce:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta water. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Sauté Garlic:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Combine Sauce and Pasta:
- Reduce the heat to low and pour the blended cottage cheese mixture into the skillet. Stir to combine with the garlic. Add the cooked pasta and toss until well coated.
- Season and Serve:
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and additional Parmesan, if desired. Serve hot.
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