Description
This Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce is a creamy, high-protein alternative to traditional Alfredo or cream-based sauces. It blends cottage cheese into a velvety texture that clings beautifully to pasta, while offering a lighter and healthier option. Ideal for quick weeknight meals, it pairs wonderfully with your favorite noodles and can be easily customized with herbs, spices, or vegetables.
Ingredients
1 cup cottage cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup milk or pasta water (adjust for consistency)
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried basil or Italian seasoning
Pasta of choice, cooked and drained
Chopped parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, Parmesan, milk or pasta water, salt, pepper, and basil. Blend until completely smooth.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the blended cottage cheese mixture and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until heated through and slightly thickened.
Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce, adding more pasta water if needed to reach desired consistency.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
This sauce is naturally thick and creamy without needing heavy cream or butter. For a vegan variation, use plant-based cottage cheese and omit the Parmesan. Roasted vegetables, sautéed spinach, or cooked chicken can be added for a heartier dish. Use whole-wheat or legume-based pasta to boost fiber and protein.