Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta
This Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta is a high-protein, comforting dish that delivers a rich and creamy texture without heavy cream. Blended cottage cheese creates a velvety sauce that coats the pasta perfectly, offering a delicious balance of creaminess and freshness. It’s a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal that can be made in under 20 minutes!
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
8 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fusilli)
1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Cottage Cheese Sauce:
1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for freshness)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup pasta water (reserved)
Optional Toppings:
1 tablespoon fresh basil or parsley, chopped
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tablespoon pine nuts or walnuts, toasted
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. Make the Cottage Cheese Sauce:
In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, Parmesan, garlic, olive oil, lemon zest, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and salt.
Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Pasta & Sauce:
Return the drained pasta to the pot over low heat.
Add the cottage cheese sauce and mix well, adding reserved pasta water gradually to achieve a silky consistency.
4. Serve & Garnish:
Transfer to plates and top with fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, and toasted nuts if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~350
Protein: ~22g
Carbohydrates: ~45g
Fiber: ~3g
Fats: ~10g
Sodium: ~400mg
Cook & Prep Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Notes & Tips
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
Add More Protein: Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Creamier Texture: Use whole milk cottage cheese for extra richness.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days (reheat with a splash of water or milk).
Flavor Boost: Add sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or caramelized onions for extra depth.