Description
Creamy, protein-packed cottage cheese pasta that’s quick, healthy, and shockingly kid-approved. A weeknight winner with a secret nutritious twist.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, shells, spirals—your choice)
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 garlic clove (optional, for blending)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water or milk (for adjusting sauce texture)
- Optional: steamed peas, wilted spinach, or roasted broccoli
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- While pasta cooks, blend cottage cheese, garlic (if using), parmesan, salt, and pepper until completely smooth.
- Return drained pasta to the pot or a skillet over low heat.
- Pour in the blended sauce and stir gently to coat.
- If needed, add a splash of pasta water or milk to loosen the sauce.
- Optional: mix in cooked veggies like peas or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Serve warm with more grated parmesan and freshly cracked pepper on top.
Notes
For the smoothest sauce, use a stick blender or high-speed blender. Full-fat cottage cheese yields a creamier result, but low-fat works great too. Add-ins like herbs or lemon zest can elevate flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American