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Ultimate Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta

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Looking for a quick, comforting, and high-protein pasta dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor? This Ultimate Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta is your new go-to. With a velvety, protein-packed sauce that hugs every twist of pasta, it transforms humble ingredients into something utterly indulgent. And yes, it’s incredibly easy to make.

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The magic lies in blending creamy cottage cheese with garlic, parmesan, and just the right seasonings to create a smooth, luscious sauce. Tossed with rotini pasta and topped with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs, this dish hits all the marks for a cozy dinner or a satisfying lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta

  • High-protein: Cottage cheese delivers a creamy texture while adding a protein punch.
  • Fast & easy: 20 minutes from start to finish.
  • Budget-friendly: Uses pantry staples and simple ingredients.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite roasted veggies or proteins.
  • Comfort food: Creamy, cheesy, and deliciously filling.

What Type of Cottage Cheese Should I Use?

Full-fat cottage cheese (4%) gives the sauce its rich creaminess, but you can also use low-fat versions if preferred. Just be sure to use small curd or blend the sauce until completely smooth for best texture. Look for plain, unsweetened cottage cheese with minimal added ingredients.


Ingredients for the Ultimate Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta

Each ingredient in this recipe serves a specific purpose in delivering flavor, creaminess, or texture:

  • 8 oz rotini pasta: Its spirals hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
  • 1 cup cottage cheese (full fat): The creamy base that provides protein and richness.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds depth and umami.
  • 1 garlic clove: Fresh, sharp, and aromatic.
  • 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the flavors.
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper: For a touch of heat.
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder: Enhances savory notes in the sauce.
  • 1/4 cup reserved pasta water: Helps blend the sauce and make it silky.
  • 2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes (chopped): For sweetness and tang.
  • Fresh parsley or basil (optional): Adds color and freshness.

How To Make the Ultimate Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

While the pasta cooks, combine cottage cheese, Parmesan, garlic, salt, pepper, onion powder, and reserved pasta water in a blender. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Toss Pasta With Sauce

Return drained pasta to the pot (off the heat). Pour the blended sauce over and stir until the pasta is thoroughly coated.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh parsley or basil. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.


Serving and Storing Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta

This recipe makes 4 servings and yields enough to generously coat 8 oz of rotini pasta, perfect for a cozy meal for the family or meal prep.

Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.


What to Serve With Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta

H3: Garlic Bread

The classic pairing. Use it to scoop up every last bit of the creamy sauce.

H3: Roasted Vegetables

Think broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra fiber and color.

H3: Crispy Chicken Tenders

A protein-packed side that adds a crunchy contrast.

H3: Simple Green Salad

A lemon vinaigrette balances the rich pasta.

H3: Grilled Shrimp

For a surf-and-turf style upgrade.

H3: Sauteed Spinach with Garlic

Adds earthiness and boosts your greens.

H3: Tomato Basil Bruschetta

Bright, fresh, and perfectly tangy – a great starter.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this with gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Any gluten-free pasta, such as chickpea or brown rice pasta, will work just as well. Adjust cooking time according to the package.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?

While Greek yogurt is creamy, it has a tangier flavor and different consistency. For best results, stick with cottage cheese.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Blend the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Cook pasta fresh and warm the sauce before combining.

How do I make the sauce even smoother?

Blend it longer or strain it through a fine mesh sieve after blending for a restaurant-style creamy texture.

Can I add protein?

Sure thing! Add cooked chicken, tofu, or even roasted chickpeas for extra protein.


Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add protein or go all veggie? Did you try it spicy?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.


Conclusion

This Ultimate Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta is a delicious twist on traditional Alfredo-style pasta that brings the comfort of creamy sauce with the benefits of added protein. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding the family, or just cooking for one, this easy recipe is going to win you over.

For more delicious ideas, check out our Rainbow Smoothie Bowls or these refreshing Tropical Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing and Vegan Breakfast Quesadillas.

Looking for more creamy, protein-packed inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest at Meals We Share.

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Ultimate Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta


  • Author: Sally Roberts
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Looking for a high-protein pasta dish that feels indulgent but takes just 20 minutes to make? This Ultimate Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta is your perfect weeknight dinner solution. Made with simple ingredients like cottage cheese, garlic, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes, this dish delivers rich, comforting flavor with minimal effort. Great for anyone looking for easy dinner ideas, quick meals, or healthy food options that actually satisfy.


Ingredients

8 oz rotini pasta

1 cup cottage cheese (full fat)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 garlic clove

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp onion powder

1/4 cup reserved pasta water

2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

Fresh parsley or basil (optional)


Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. While the pasta cooks, combine cottage cheese, Parmesan, garlic, salt, pepper, onion powder, and reserved pasta water in a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

3. Return drained pasta to the pot (off the heat). Pour the blended sauce over and stir until the pasta is thoroughly coated.

4. Top with chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh parsley or basil. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Blend the sauce well for the smoothest texture; a high-speed blender works best.

Adjust salt to taste depending on the saltiness of your Parmesan.

Add a splash more pasta water if the sauce thickens too much when reheating.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 385
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 525mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 51g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: cottage cheese pasta, creamy pasta, protein pasta, healthy dinner, quick pasta

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