Welcome to our easy and delicious Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta recipe! This dish is a twist on the classic Alfredo pasta, but it's lighter and packed with protein. Imagine creamy, cheesy sauce clinging to every strand of pasta, creating a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly healthy.
Made with simple ingredients and ready in about 30 minutes, this pasta dish is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or when you just crave something creamy and satisfying. Whether you're a pasta lover or looking for new ways to enjoy cottage cheese, this recipe promises to delight your taste buds.
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
This Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta stands out because it's incredibly creamy without being too heavy. Traditional Alfredo sauce relies on heavy cream and lots of butter, but by using cottage cheese, we're cutting down on fats and boosting the protein content. Blending cottage cheese creates a smooth and velvety sauce that rivals the richness of classic Alfredo, making it a fantastic option for anyone looking for a lighter version of the beloved dish. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients, especially if you're trying to encourage picky eaters to enjoy their dairy.
The simplicity and versatility of this recipe make it a must-try. It requires minimal ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. This flexibility means you can customize the dish to suit your tastes or dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. Whether you choose to add your favorite vegetables, switch up the pasta for a gluten-free option, or even add some grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, this recipe adapts beautifully. It's not just about making a meal; it's about creating something that fits perfectly into your lifestyle, proving that delicious and nutritious can go hand in hand.
Ingredients
Cottage Cheese: A fresh cheese known for its small curds and slightly tangy flavor. It's creamy and high in protein. Substitute: Ricotta or cream cheese for a smoother texture.
Pasta: Choose your favorite type like fettuccine or penne. Pasta is the base of the dish, offering a perfect texture. Substitute: Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.
Garlic: Adds a punch of flavor, making the sauce aromatic and tasty. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
Parmesan Cheese: Gives the Alfredo sauce a nutty and salty depth. Freshly grated is preferred for the best melt. Substitute: Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
Milk: Thins the sauce and adds creaminess. Whole milk is ideal for richness, but you can use skim or plant-based milks for lighter options.
Tips
- Cook pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the sauce.
- Stir the sauce continuously while cooking to prevent it from sticking or burning.
- Add pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency—this starchy water helps thicken the Alfredo sauce.
- Use fresh garlic and Parmesan for the best flavor; pre-packaged versions can't compare.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking; it thickens the sauce and melds the flavors.
How to Serve
Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta is a versatile and comforting dish, perfect for a cozy dinner at home. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and can be customized to suit different tastes. The creamy texture and rich flavor of the Alfredo sauce make it a crowd-pleaser.
- With a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus to add a fresh and healthy contrast.
- Alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed meal.
- Topped with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness.
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Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g pasta
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- While pasta cooks, blend the cottage cheese and milk in a blender until smooth.
- In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour the cottage cheese mixture into the pan. Add grated Parmesan cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
• Stir the sauce continuously while cooking to prevent it from sticking or burning.
• Add pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency—this starchy water helps thicken the Alfredo sauce.
• Use fresh garlic and Parmesan for the best flavor; pre-packaged versions can't compare.
• Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking; it thickens the sauce and melds the flavors.