This Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta is a creamy and delicious dish that’s quick to make! It features pasta mixed with a rich sauce made from cottage cheese, garlic, and a sprinkle of cheese.
I love how it’s both comforting and light! You can whip it up in no time, and it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without the fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine pasta: This recipe uses fettuccine for its flat surface, which holds the sauce nicely. You can swap it for spaghetti, penne, or even whole wheat pasta for a bit of added nutrition.
Cottage cheese: Full fat gives a creamier texture, but low-fat works well too. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using cashew cream or silken tofu blended until smooth.
Heavy cream: This adds richness, but you can substitute it with whole milk mixed with a bit of butter for a lighter option. Coconut cream is a great non-dairy alternative for a hint of sweetness.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds amazing flavor. If you’re vegan, you could use nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy.
Fresh parsley: This brings a fresh, bright note. Feel free to replace it with basil or spinach, depending on your taste preference!
How Do You Get a Creamy Sauce Without Curdling?
The key to a smooth Alfredo sauce is blending the ingredients properly. Here’s how to do it right:
- After melting butter and sautéing garlic, reduce the heat before adding cottage cheese and cream. This keeps the mixture warm without overheating.
- Blend the sauce using an immersion blender or a regular blender until it’s silky smooth. This step is crucial for a creamy texture.
- When adding cheese, mix it into the sauce off the heat to prevent curdling.
By following these tips, you’ll ensure your sauce stays creamy and delicious every time!
How to Make Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
For The Sauce:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full fat or low fat)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 small tomato, diced (for a touch of freshness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes total, including cooking the pasta and making the Alfredo sauce. It’s a quick and easy meal that you can enjoy any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, but make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it turn brown!
3. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat and add the cottage cheese and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir well to combine everything into a smooth mixture.
4. Blend the Sauce:
If you want an extra creamy sauce, use an immersion blender directly in the skillet, or carefully transfer the mixture to a regular blender. Blend until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Taste the sauce and add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.
6. Adjust the Consistency:
If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add in some reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Gently add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce in the skillet and toss until all the noodles are well-coated.
8. Optional Fresh Touch:
If you’d like, stir in the diced tomato for an extra pop of color and freshness.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, add additional chopped parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper on top for garnish. Serve the pasta immediately with warm bread or a side salad for a delightful meal.
Enjoy your creamy, rich Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta that’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses fettuccine, you can substitute it with spaghetti, penne, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, this dish is already vegetarian! Just ensure that the Parmesan cheese you use is rennet-free if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. Most store-bought Parmesan is fine, but it’s always good to double-check.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce.
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Dish?
Absolutely! You can toss in some steamed broccoli, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to add them during the last few minutes of cooking to keep them vibrant and fresh.
