Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, dreamy pasta dishes that will make your taste buds sing! Cottage cheese is often overlooked as a humble ingredient, but when combined with pasta and a medley of flavors, it becomes a game-changer. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delectable recipes that showcase the versatility and creaminess of cottage cheese in pasta form.
From classic comfort foods to innovative twists, our list is packed with mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce or a zesty and spicy kick, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron, get cooking, and let’s dive into the world of creamy cottage cheese pasta delights!
Spinach and Cottage Cheese Stuffed Shells
A creative twist on classic stuffed shells, this recipe combines the creamy richness of cottage cheese with the nutritious goodness of spinach. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the spinach-cottage cheese mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Spoon marinara sauce over the shells.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta
Transform ordinary pasta into a rich and creamy masterpiece with this innovative recipe that combines the tanginess of cottage cheese with the classic flavors of Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. fettuccine or other flat pasta
– 1 cup cottage cheese, drained and crumbled
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Sprinkle flour into the saucepan and whisk to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. Gradually pour in heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in crumbled cottage cheese until well combined.
6. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Cottage Cheese Pasta
This comforting pasta dish combines the richness of cottage cheese with the savory flavors of garlic and parmesan. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cottage cheese, garlic, and parmesan cheese. Mix well.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cottage cheese mixture and stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the cottage cheese sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake
A creamy and flavorful twist on traditional pasta bakes, this recipe combines the tanginess of cottage cheese with the sweetness of tomatoes and fresh basil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, cherry tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil. Mix until well combined.
4. Add cooked pasta to the mixture and toss until coated.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad
This refreshing salad combines the tanginess of lemon with the creaminess of cottage cheese, all on a bed of pasta and fresh herbs. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp. chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, lemon juice, and chopped fresh herbs. Mix well to combine.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to coat with the cottage cheese mixture.
4. Stir in chopped scallions and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cottage Cheese Pasta with Chili Flakes
A creamy and spicy twist on classic pasta, this recipe combines the comfort of cottage cheese with a kick from chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook for 2-3 minutes or until softened.
3. Stir in chili flakes and cook for an additional minute.
4. Combine cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cooked pasta in the skillet. Toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Cottage Cheese Pasta
Roasted Vegetable Cottage Cheese Pasta: A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional pasta dishes!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup roasted mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, carrots, and cherry tomatoes)
– 1/2 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted vegetables, cottage cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine.
5. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss everything together until well coated with the vegetable-cottage cheese mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pesto Cottage Cheese Pasta with Pine Nuts
Elevate your pasta game with this unique and flavorful recipe that combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the richness of pesto and the crunch of pine nuts.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 tbsp. pesto
– 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese and pesto. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
3. Add cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and toss until coated.
4. Sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the top of the pasta and toss again to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mushroom and Cottage Cheese Stroganoff Pasta
Mushroom and Cottage Cheese Stroganoff Pasta Recipe
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this creamy, savory pasta dish! This recipe combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the richness of cottage cheese and a hint of paprika.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
• 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cottage cheese, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the mushroom-cottage cheese mixture; serve hot. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini and Cottage Cheese Lasagna Roll-Ups
A creative twist on traditional lasagna, these roll-ups are a delicious and healthier alternative. The combination of sautéed zucchini, creamy cottage cheese, and melted mozzarella cheese will satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté zucchini strips with olive oil until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese and mozzarella cheese.
5. To assemble the roll-ups, lay a cooked lasagna noodle flat and spread a small amount of the cottage cheese mixture on the noodle, leaving a 1-inch border at one end. Place a few zucchini strips on top.
6. Roll up the noodle tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Top roll-ups with Parmesan cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
This comforting macaroni dish gets a creamy twist by incorporating cottage cheese, adding a tangy flavor to the classic mac and cheese. The crunchy breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying texture that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 cups milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, milk, and butter. Mix until smooth.
4. Add grated cheddar cheese and mix until well combined.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese mixture in a baking dish.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Cottage Cheese Penne
This creamy pasta dish combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the tanginess of cottage cheese, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup cottage cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the cottage cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss with the tomato-cottage cheese mixture until well combined.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Cottage Cheese Pasta Casserole
A comforting, creamy casserole that combines the best of pasta, broccoli, and cheddar cheese with a unique twist – cottage cheese! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cottage cheese, milk, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine cooked pasta, broccoli mixture, and cottage cheese mixture. Stir until combined.
6. Top with chopped parsley and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cottage Cheese Pasta Primavera with Fresh Herbs
This light and refreshing pasta dish combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the sweetness of spring vegetables, all tied together with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Perfect for a warm-weather dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, and snap peas)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, or dill) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, 1-2 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in cottage cheese until well combined with the vegetables.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake
This creamy pasta bake combines the comfort of cottage cheese with the spicy kick of buffalo chicken, all wrapped up in a rich and satisfying casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup buffalo chicken breast, diced
– 1 tablespoon ranch dressing
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cottage cheese, mozzarella cheese, parsley, buffalo chicken, ranch dressing, and hot sauce. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese if desired.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Cottage Cheese Fusilli
Caramelized Onion and Cottage Cheese Fusilli: A Sweet and Savory Twist on Classic Pasta
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of caramelized onions with the creaminess of cottage cheese, all wrapped up in a delicious fusilli pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup fusilli pasta
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the onion and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta, caramelized onions, and cottage cheese mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cottage Cheese Pasta with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
A comforting and creamy pasta dish that combines the richness of cottage cheese with the sweetness of roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine cottage cheese, water, and olive oil. Heat over low heat until smooth and creamy.
4. Toss roasted red pepper mixture with garlic and onion in a blender or food processor until well combined.
5. Combine cooked pasta, cottage cheese sauce, and roasted red pepper sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Cottage Cheese Pasta with Olives
This creamy pasta dish combines the rich flavors of cottage cheese, olives, and Mediterranean herbs for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pitted green olives
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cottage cheese, chopped olives, olive oil, and dried oregano. Mix well to combine.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until coated with the cottage cheese mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Cottage Cheese Pasta Alfredo
A rich and satisfying twist on the classic pasta dish, this recipe combines chicken, cottage cheese, and a velvety Alfredo sauce for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cooked chicken.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the Alfredo sauce mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Cottage Cheese Pasta with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this unique and creamy combination of cottage cheese, avocado, and pasta. This recipe is a perfect blend of comfort food and healthy eating.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, red pepper flakes
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, 1/4 cup water, and parsley. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large skillet, heat the blended mixture over medium heat. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
4. Cut the avocado flesh into small pieces and add to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy cottage cheese-avocado sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder or red pepper flakes.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Indulge in these 20 creamy cottage cheese pasta delights! From classic comfort food to innovative twists, this collection has something for everyone. Try Spinach and Cottage Cheese Stuffed Shells or Creamy Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta for a rich and satisfying meal. Or, go lighter with Lemon Herb Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad or Sun-Dried Tomato and Cottage Cheese Penne. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, herby, or just plain creamy, these recipes are sure to please. So, get cooking and discover your new favorite dish!
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