Some evenings call for food that feels like a gentle embrace, and this creamy cottage cheese pasta fits that feeling perfectly. It’s the kind of dish that turns simple ingredients into something unexpectedly satisfying, cozy, and nourishing.
One rainy night last week, I found myself craving something warm and comforting but didn’t want to spend too long in the kitchen. As the aroma of garlic sautéing in olive oil filled the air, my kitchen instantly felt alive. The gentle bubbling of the pasta water and the quiet clinking of the skillet created a soothing soundtrack. When the creamy cottage cheese sauce came together, smooth and rich, I knew this meal was going to hit just right. With a sprinkle of fresh basil and parsley, the pasta looked vibrant and inviting—just what I needed after a long day.
- Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
- Combines protein-packed cottage cheese with tender pasta for a filling meal.
- Fresh herbs add brightness and color, making it as beautiful as it is tasty.
- A comforting, creamy sauce without heavy cream, lighter but still indulgent.
- Easy to store and reheat, great for leftovers or meal prep.
If you’re worried about the sauce being too thick or heavy, it’s actually wonderfully light thanks to the cottage cheese and milk blend. Just a quick toss on low heat brings everything together without any fuss.
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Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4
Description
A quick and delicious creamy cottage cheese pasta that combines the richness of cottage cheese with tender pasta for a comforting and protein-packed meal.
Ingredients
12 ounces penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup whole milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and whole milk. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with garlic and reduce heat to low.
Pour the cottage cheese mixture over the pasta and gently toss to combine, heating through for 2-3 minutes. Do not boil.
Season the pasta with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well.
Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil and parsley.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta? Absolutely. While penne works great here, feel free to use your favorite shape like fusilli or farfalle.
Is low-fat cottage cheese necessary? You can use regular or low-fat cottage cheese; the texture might vary slightly, but the flavor remains delicious.
Can I make this vegan? This recipe relies on dairy for its creamy texture, but you could experiment with plant-based cheeses and milk alternatives.
How spicy is it? There’s a touch of crushed red pepper flakes to add warmth without overwhelming heat—you can adjust or omit to suit your taste.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.
This creamy cottage cheese pasta is a little reminder that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Give it a try next time you want something quick, creamy, and satisfying—your taste buds will thank you.