Cottage Cheese Pasta is a delicious and straightforward dish that brings together the creaminess of cottage cheese and the tanginess of marinara sauce, all wrapped around perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it a perfect option for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful lunch.

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Ingredients Overview

The ingredients for Cottage Cheese Pasta are simple yet play a crucial role in creating a harmonious blend of flavors. You will need 16 ounces of fusilli pasta or any pasta of your choice, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, 1 cup of marinara sauce, 1 cup of whole-milk cottage cheese, ½ cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese, ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes, and some chopped parsley for serving. Each ingredient contributes to the overall texture and taste of the dish, with the parmesan adding a nutty, salty element, and the cottage cheese providing a rich, creamy base.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

To begin, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. The salt enhances the flavor of the pasta as it cooks. Add the pasta and cook it until it reaches an al dente texture, following the instructions on the package. This typically means the pasta is firm to the bite, which helps it hold up well when mixed with the sauce. Before draining the pasta, remember to reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water is key to achieving the right consistency for the sauce. Once drained, return the pasta to the pot and keep it covered to stay warm.

Next, in a high-speed blender, combine the marinara sauce, cottage cheese, parmesan cheese, melted butter, red pepper flakes, and the reserved pasta water. Blend this mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The blending process ensures that all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed, creating a velvety sauce.

Pour the blended sauce over the cooked pasta in the pot. Toss the pasta well to ensure it is thoroughly coated with the sauce. The heat from the pasta will help to meld the flavors together. Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with additional red pepper flakes and chopped parsley if desired, to add a touch of freshness and color to the dish.

Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing the right pasta for this dish: Fusilli pasta is ideal because its spiral shape holds onto the creamy sauce well, but you can also use penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti.
Tips for a smoother sauce: Ensure the butter is fully melted before blending to achieve a silky texture. Using whole-milk cottage cheese also adds to the creaminess.
Adjusting the spice level with red pepper flakes: If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or reduce it for a milder flavor.
How to store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time? You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and combine it with the reheated sauce.
What are some common mistakes to avoid? Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy, so be sure to cook it al dente. Also, blending the sauce until completely smooth is crucial to avoid a lumpy texture.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Cottage Cheese Pasta pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a balanced meal, consider serving it with a fresh green salad, perhaps with a light vinaigrette to complement the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or a warm baguette can also be a delightful addition, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. For a beverage, a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, would pair well, enhancing the flavors without overpowering the dish.

Variations and Substitutions

There are many ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste. You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as ricotta or mascarpone, to alter the flavor profile. For a vegetarian version, simply ensure your marinara sauce is free from meat. Adding proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms can turn this pasta into a more substantial meal. Additionally, incorporating vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can provide extra nutrition and color.

Cottage Cheese Pasta is a versatile and easy-to-make dish that promises to delight your taste buds with its creamy, savory goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or looking for a quick and satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations and serve it with your favorite sides to make it your own. Enjoy the simplicity and rich flavors of this wonderful pasta dish!

Ingredients:

16 ounces fusilli pasta or pasta of choice
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup whole-milk cottage cheese
½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Chopped parsley for serving

Instructions:

1. Begin by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, following the instructions on the package. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot, keeping it covered to stay warm.
2. In a high-speed blender, combine the marinara sauce, cottage cheese, parmesan cheese, melted butter, red pepper flakes, and the reserved pasta water. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
3. Pour the blended sauce over the cooked pasta. Toss well until the pasta is thoroughly coated and the dish is heated through. Serve immediately, garnishing with additional red pepper flakes and chopped parsley if desired.