Creamy High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta (Print Version)
Creamy High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta is a quick, satisfying meal. Enjoy a healthier twist on classic pasta with a rich, protein-packed sauce.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian
# Ingredients:
→ The Pasta Canvas
01 -
12 oz penne pasta
02 -
1 tbsp olive oil
→ Velvety Protein Sauce
03 -
2 cups 2% milkfat cottage cheese
04 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
05 -
1/4 cup 2% milk
06 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
07 -
1/2 tsp onion powder
08 -
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
09 -
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
10 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Vibrant Veggies & Fresh Finish
11 -
5 oz fresh spinach
12 -
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
13 -
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
14 -
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
02 -
In a large skillet or pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
03 -
In a blender, combine 2 cups 2% milkfat cottage cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup 2% milk, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, and 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
04 -
Pour the blended cottage cheese sauce into the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Add the cooked penne pasta, 5 oz fresh spinach, and 1 pint halved cherry tomatoes. Stir well to coat all ingredients evenly, creating your Creamy High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta.
05 -
Cook over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes warm through. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until your Creamy High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta reaches desired consistency.
06 -
Taste the Creamy High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta and adjust salt and black pepper as needed. Divide among serving bowls. Garnish each serving with 1/4 cup fresh chopped basil and 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese before enjoying.
# Notes:
01 -
For an extra boost of protein and flavor, consider adding cooked chicken breast or shrimp to the pasta at the end.
02 -
Leftovers of this Creamy High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
03 -
Feel free to customize your veggies! Broccoli florets, bell peppers, or mushrooms would also be delicious additions. Sauté them with the garlic for best results.
04 -
If you don't have a high-speed blender, you can use an immersion blender directly in a bowl or food processor for the sauce, ensuring it's as smooth as possible.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Blender
03 -
Large skillet
04 -
Colander
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 518 kcal
Total Fat: 12 g
Total Carbohydrate: 72 g
Protein: 33 g