This Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta is a creamy, dreamy dish that’s easy to whip up! It combines pasta and a rich sauce made with cottage cheese, making it both tasty and comforting.
I love how this dish feels like a big hug on a plate! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some protein. You can top it with fresh herbs or veggies for that extra touch.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine gives a classic feel, but feel free to swap it for any pasta you have, like penne or spaghetti. Just cook according to package directions!
Cottage Cheese: Small curd is perfect because it blends smoothly. If you’re lactose-sensitive, try using a lactose-free version or even Greek yogurt for a thicker, creamy texture.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter dish, whole milk works well instead. You can also use almond milk or oat milk; just keep in mind that the richness will be different!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds that cheesy flavor, but Pecorino Romano can also work nicely as a substitute. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free option if you’re vegan.
How Do I Make a Smooth Alfredo Sauce?
The key to a smooth Alfredo sauce is to properly blend the cottage cheese. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a blender or food processor to combine cottage cheese with heavy cream until it’s completely smooth.
- This helps eliminate any graininess, giving you that creamy texture you want.
- When adding the mixture to the pan, cook it on low heat to keep the sauce gentle and prevent it from curdling.
Keep stirring as you warm the sauce, and don’t let it boil. This step is crucial for achieving that nice, velvety finish!
Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably small curd)
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente (cooked but still a little firm). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Blend the Sauce:
In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese and heavy cream. Blend them together until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. This will be the base of your Alfredo sauce!
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the unsalted butter. Once the butter is melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute. You want it to be fragrant but not browned—so keep an eye on it!
4. Combine the Mixtures:
Lower the heat to low, then pour the blended cottage cheese and cream mixture into the skillet. Stir constantly, warming it through gently. It’s important not to let it boil, as we want it to stay nice and creamy.
5. Add the Cheese:
Add in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir it until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. This will help thicken it slightly. Taste the sauce, and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
6. Mix with Pasta:
Now, add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the Alfredo sauce. Looks delicious already, doesn’t it?
7. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the pasta hot, topped with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a colorful garnish. If you like, sprinkle on some red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
8. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your creamy, rich, and slightly tangy Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or anytime you crave comfort food.
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a healthier alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as whole wheat pasta might take a minute or two longer to cook.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creaminess.
Can I Customize the Sauce?
Yes! Feel free to add in other ingredients like cooked spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even grilled chicken for protein. You can also adjust the garlic and cheese amounts to fit your taste!
Is There a Dairy-Free Option for This Dish?
Definitely! You can substitute cottage cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as silken tofu or a vegan cream cheese alternative. Use almond milk or another plant-based milk in place of heavy cream for a dairy-free sauce.
