This cozy cottage cheese pasta sauce brings creamy goodness to your noodles without all the fuss! Just mix cottage cheese with a few spices, and you’ve got a tasty sauce ready in no time.
I love how this sauce adds a protein punch to my pasta. Plus, it’s so easy that even my dog could help (just kidding, he might eat the cheese before I get to it)! 🐶
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rigatoni or penne work best for this dish because the sauce clings well to the shapes. If you’re gluten-free, consider using chickpea or lentil pasta for a protein boost!
Cottage Cheese: Small curd cottage cheese gives the sauce a smoother texture. You can replace it with ricotta cheese for an even creamier feel or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Just remember that Greek yogurt will change the flavor slightly.
Tomato Sauce: Use any jarred tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes. If you want a fresh taste, blending canned whole tomatoes with some herbs makes a great substitute. You can also use marinara sauce for a heartier flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for that aromatic touch. If fresh isn’t available, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried basil instead. Just add it in earlier in the cooking process.
How Do I Make Sure My Sauce Is the Right Consistency?
Getting that creamy texture is all about balance! If your sauce feels too thick, don’t panic. Just use that reserved pasta water, adding a small amount at a time until it’s just right.
- Start with your sauce on low heat after adding cottage cheese.
- As you stir the mixture, look for it to become smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate pasta water gradually, until you achieve your desired sauce thickness.
Also, make sure to mix well so the cottage cheese blends nicely with the tomato sauce. The heat helps it melt into the sauce! Enjoy your creamy pasta dish without the hassle!
How to Make Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Sauce:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (rigatoni or penne works well)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- 1 cup cottage cheese (small curd preferred)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, sliced thinly (plus a few whole leaves for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes total. It’s quick and delicious, with about 10 minutes for prep and cooking the pasta, and another 10 minutes to make the sauce and combine everything. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (typically around 8-10 minutes). Once it’s done, drain the pasta but reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, or until it smells fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Prepare the Sauce:
Next, add the tomato sauce to the skillet with the garlic. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until it’s warmed through. This step adds a lovely flavor base for your sauce!
4. Make It Creamy:
Turn the heat down to low and stir in the cottage cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until everything is well combined and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Add Seasoning:
Season your sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat. Stir in most of the sliced basil, but save a few leaves for garnishing!
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated with the creamy cottage cheese sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious cottage cheese pasta sauce immediately! Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves on top for a beautiful finish. Dig in and enjoy this creamy, comforting dish!
Feel free to customize it further by adding veggies or protein for a complete meal. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Another Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute cottage cheese with ricotta. For a creamier consistency, cream cheese works well too. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly with each substitution!
Is This Recipe Suitable for Meal Prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove and combine with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to eat.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Sauce?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can enhance the nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them in the skillet before adding the garlic, and then follow the rest of the recipe as instructed.
How Do I Store Leftover Sauce?
Store any leftover pasta and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a pan over low to medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking.