This creamy cottage cheese pasta is like a hug in a bowl! It’s smooth, cheesy, and ready in no time, making it perfect for a quick dinner.
You won’t believe how delicious cottage cheese can be when mixed with pasta. Trust me, every bite will make you smile. 🍝 I love adding some veggies for a pop of color and extra flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini for its fun shape that holds onto the sauce well. You can swap it with any short pasta like fusilli, penne, or even gluten-free pasta if needed!
Cottage Cheese: Opt for small curd, full-fat cottage cheese for creaminess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, try using silken tofu blended until smooth.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor. If unavailable, use a mix of mozzarella and a bit of Parmesan for a different twist.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan works best for a richer taste. You can replace it with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Fresh Basil: This herb brings freshness. If basil isn’t available, try parsley or spinach for a different taste, or use dried basil in a pinch.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Sauce is Creamy and Delicious?
A creamy pasta sauce can elevate this dish! Ensure you don’t skip the reserved pasta water. This starchy water helps bind the sauce and pasta together.
- Mix cottage cheese with the cheeses and seasonings until smooth.
- Gradually add reserved pasta water while stirring to achieve your desired creaminess.
- Warm pasta should be added to the mixture right away for better sauce absorption.
Taste your sauce! If it feels a bit flat, you can always add a pinch more salt or pepper. Enjoy creating a dish that suits your taste perfectly!
How to Make Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup cottage cheese (small curd, full-fat recommended)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, thinly sliced (plus more for garnish)
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Extras:
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy cottage cheese pasta is quick to whip up! You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep and cooking, plus an additional 5 minutes for serving and garnishing. Altogether, it’s done in about 20 minutes—perfect for any busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once bubbling, add your rotini pasta (or any short pasta of your choice). Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, remember to reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the rest.
2. Make the Cheese Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and, if you like, red pepper flakes for a kick. Stir everything together until it becomes smooth and creamy. This will be the delicious cheesy base for your pasta!
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained warm pasta into the cheese mixture. Now, pour in that reserved pasta cooking water slowly while stirring. This helps to make the sauce smooth and creamy. Keep mixing until every piece of pasta is coated evenly with the cheesy goodness!
4. Add Fresh Herbs:
Toss in the thinly sliced fresh basil and your choice of olive oil or butter. This will add a lovely richness and fresh flavor to the dish. Stir everything together so the basil is well distributed.
5. Season to Taste:
Take a moment to taste your creamy pasta! You can adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, black pepper, or red pepper flakes if you’d like some extra heat.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy cottage cheese pasta right away! Garnish with extra fresh basil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for that pop of color. Enjoy this comforting and delicious meal!
Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber. If you’re going gluten-free, look for gluten-free pasta options and cook them according to the package instructions.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! For a dairy-free version, substitute the cottage cheese with a blended silken tofu or a dairy-free cream cheese. You can use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover creamy cottage cheese pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.
What Additional Ingredients Can I Add?
Feel free to customize your pasta! You can add cooked vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli for extra nutrients. Cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon can also make great protein additions!