Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High in protein and lower in fat than many creamy sauces

• Smooth, rich texture without heavy cream

• Quick and easy to make in under 20 minutes

• Budget-friendly and made with simple ingredients

• Versatile and customizable with herbs and vegetables

• Kid-friendly and great for meal prep

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 1/2 cups cottage cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
8 ounces pasta of choice
1/4 cup reserved pasta water

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.

3. In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, sautéed garlic, milk, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.

4. Return the drained pasta to the pot or a large skillet over low heat.

5. Pour the blended cottage cheese sauce over the pasta and stir gently to combine.

6. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce until you reach your desired consistency.

7. Heat gently for 1–2 minutes, stirring continuously. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.

8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep time: 5–10 minutes
Cook time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 15–20 minutes

Variations

• Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.

• Stir in red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

• Blend in fresh basil or parsley for a bright herbal note.

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for additional protein.

• Use ricotta in place of part of the cottage cheese for an even creamier texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess as needed.

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may become grainy after thawing.

FAQs

Can I taste the cottage cheese in the sauce?

Once blended, the cottage cheese becomes smooth and mild, similar to a light Alfredo sauce.

What type of cottage cheese works best?

Full-fat cottage cheese creates the creamiest texture, but low-fat varieties also work well.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Why should I avoid boiling the sauce?

Boiling can cause dairy-based sauces to separate or become grainy. Gentle heat keeps it smooth.

Is this sauce gluten-free?

The sauce itself is gluten-free. Simply use gluten-free pasta if needed.

Can I use this sauce for baked pasta?

Yes, it works well in baked pasta dishes. Just mix with cooked pasta and bake until heated through.

Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Yes, blending in roasted garlic, spinach, or even roasted red peppers adds flavor and nutrition.

What pasta shapes work best?

Short shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli hold the sauce beautifully, but any pasta works.

Can I substitute Parmesan?

You can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast as alternatives.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Reduce the amount of milk slightly or simmer gently for an extra minute while stirring.

Conclusion

Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce is a simple, creamy, and protein-rich option that transforms everyday pasta into a comforting meal. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, it’s a versatile recipe you’ll return to whenever you want something satisfying and wholesome.

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