This creamy Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta is a cozy dish that’s easy to whip up! It’s made with rich cottage cheese, which gives you a smooth and tasty sauce that feels special.
Who knew cottage cheese could be so good in pasta? I often catch myself going back for seconds because it’s just that comforting. Pair it with some veggies for extra color and crunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like using rotini or penne because their shapes hold onto the sauce perfectly. However, if you prefer whole grain or gluten-free pasta, both options work well in this recipe!
Cottage Cheese: Small curd cottage cheese gives a smoother texture. If you’re not a fan, ricotta cheese is a lovely substitute for a slightly different taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds that classic cheesy flavor. If you want a dairy-free version, nutritional yeast can give a similar taste and enhance the sauce.
Heavy Cream or Milk: If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use low-fat milk or even Greek yogurt for some tanginess without as many calories.
How Do I Make the Sauce Creamy Without Overcooking It?
The key to a smooth and creamy sauce is blending the cottage cheese well. Here’s how to do it right:
- After cooking the garlic in butter, keep the heat low when pouring in your blended cottage cheese mix to avoid curdling.
- Stir gently and let it warm through for a few minutes—watch it closely to see how it thickens.
- For an extra creamy texture, you could even blend in a splash more of cream or milk if it seems too thick.
By taking your time in this step, you’ll achieve a velvety sauce that clings to the pasta beautifully!
Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (such as rotini or penne)
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably small curd)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
For Serving:
- Olive oil or butter (for toasting bread, optional)
- Bread slices (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and another 10 minutes making the creamy sauce and bringing it all together. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is bubbling, add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it so it gets fragrant but doesn’t brown, as that can change the flavor.
3. Blend the Sauce:
While the garlic is cooking, grab a blender or food processor. Combine the cottage cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream (or milk). Blend everything until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will be your delicious Alfredo sauce!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Pour the creamy cheese mixture into the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Stir it together and cook on low to medium heat for about 3-4 minutes. This helps warm it through and thicken it slightly, creating a lovely sauce. Stir often to avoid sticking!
5. Season the Sauce:
Once the sauce is warmed, season it with salt and ground black pepper to your liking. Feel free to taste as you go!
6. Mix in the Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and gently toss everything together until the pasta is coated beautifully in the creamy mixture.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Dish out the pasta into bowls. Top with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. If you like a little kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top, too!
8. Toast and Enjoy:
If you’d like some bread on the side, you can toast slices with a bit of olive oil or butter. Serve alongside your pasta for a delightful meal.
Enjoy your creamy, comforting Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta—it’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
Can I Use Frozen Pasta Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen pasta, but make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking. Frozen pasta often cooks faster than dried pasta, so keep an eye on it!
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative like cashew cream or blended silken tofu. Use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for the cheesy flavor, and opt for almond milk or coconut milk in place of heavy cream.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help restore the creamy texture.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas are great additions. You can sauté them with the garlic in step two or steam them and mix them in with the pasta for added nutrition and flavor!
