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Cottage Cheese Pasta

Cottage cheese pasta in a white bowl topped with fresh basil and parmesan cheese
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A creamy, high-protein pasta dish featuring a surprisingly delicious and simple cottage cheese sauce. This healthy and satisfying meal comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz pasta of your choice
  • 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: red pepper flakes, fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add 1-2 tablespoons of salt. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. The pasta should have a slight bite to it.
  2. Before draining, reserve at least 1 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander. Do not rinse.
  3. While pasta cooks, combine cottage cheese, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend on high for 60-90 seconds, stopping once to scrape down sides, until completely smooth with no visible curds and the consistency of heavy cream.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds until it shimmers.
  5. Add drained pasta to the skillet along with the blended cottage cheese sauce. Toss to combine and coat evenly.
  6. Pour in 1/4 cup of reserved pasta water, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes until sauce becomes glossy and coats pasta smoothly. Add more pasta water one tablespoon at a time if needed until sauce reaches desired consistency.
  7. Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

  • Use full-fat cottage cheese for the creamiest sauce. Low-fat versions will work but won’t be as rich.
  • Don’t skip the pasta water – the starch is crucial for creating a creamy, emulsified sauce that clings to the pasta.
  • Blend the sauce for at least 60 seconds, stopping to scrape down sides, to ensure it’s perfectly smooth with no grainy texture.
  • For extra protein, add shredded chicken, chickpeas, or white beans. Stir in fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrients.
  • Don’t let sauce boil after combining with pasta or it may separate. Keep heat gentle.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.benefitiany.com/cottage-cheese-pasta/