This creamy Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta is a fun twist on the classic dish! It combines smooth cottage cheese with rich flavors, making it both delicious and a bit lighter.
I love how easy it is to whip up in no time. Plus, it’s one of those meals where you can sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing. Win-win! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: I love using penne for its ability to hold onto the sauce. However, if you’re short on pasta types, feel free to swap it for fusilli, rotini, or any shape you have on hand.
Cottage Cheese: This is the star of the show! If you’re avoiding dairy, try using silken tofu for a similar texture. You can also blend in a bit of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice depth. If you need dairy-free, a vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast can work well in this recipe. Personally, I find that a sprinkle of regular cheese enhances the taste significantly.
Milk: Whole milk makes everything rich and creamy, but skim or even non-dairy milk, like almond or oat milk, can be used. Just keep in mind it might alter the creaminess slightly.
How Do You Create a Smooth Alfredo Sauce?
Making a smooth Alfredo sauce can be tricky, but I’ve got some tips! Start by blending the cottage cheese, Parmesan, and milk until creamy. This ensures a uniform texture without lumps.
- Cook the garlic gently – high heat can make it bitter.
- When adding the blended mixture to the skillet, keep the heat low to avoid boiling, which can curdle the sauce.
- Stir continuously as you warm it up; this helps to combine the flavors better.
Following these steps will result in a rich, creamy sauce that pairs wonderfully with the pasta. Happy cooking!
How to Make Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225g) penne pasta
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or as preferred)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of red chili flakes (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley or basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 20 minutes of total time! You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and preparing the sauce, followed by 5-10 minutes for assembly and garnishing. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. If you’re adding frozen peas, toss them in during the last 2 minutes of cooking to heat them through. Once cooked, drain the pasta and peas, and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
While the pasta is cooking, let’s make the sauce! In a blender or food processor, combine the low-fat cottage cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and your choice of milk. Blend everything until smooth and creamy. This will be the base for our rich Alfredo sauce.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Next, take a large skillet and melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to let it brown.
4. Combine the Sauce and Garlic:
Carefully pour the blended cheese mixture into the skillet containing the sautéed garlic. Stir it gently over low heat until it’s warmed through and slightly thickened, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Remember to avoid boiling the sauce to keep everything nice and smooth.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained pasta and peas into the skillet with the sauce. Toss the mixture gently until all the pasta is well-coated with that creamy delicious sauce.
6. Season to Taste:
Now, season your dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preference. Mix it well to blend all the flavors!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Plate the creamy pasta immediately. For a lovely touch, garnish each serving with fresh chopped parsley or basil leaves, and sprinkle a pinch of red chili flakes for a bit of spice if desired. Enjoy your satisfying Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta!
Bon appétit! This creamy goodness is not only comforting but also packed with protein! 🥳
Can I Use Low-Fat Milk Instead of Whole Milk?
Absolutely! Low-fat milk will work just fine in this recipe. It may result in a slightly lighter sauce, but it will still be creamy and delicious!
Can I Add Protein to This Dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms can be great additions. Just cook the protein separately and mix it into the pasta during the final steps.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if the sauce seems too thick.
Is There a Gluten-Free Option for This Recipe?
Yes! You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results!
