Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make pasta dish that’s also packed with protein? Look no further than these 18 creamy cottage cheese pasta recipes! Cottage cheese is a great addition to pasta dishes because it adds a tangy flavor and a boost of calcium. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of different recipes.
From classic comfort foods like stuffed shells and baked ziti, to lighter options like salads and pasta bowls, there’s something for everyone in this collection of creamy cottage cheese pasta recipes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these dishes are sure to please. In the following pages, we’ll take a look at each of these delicious recipes, with step-by-step instructions and photos to help you get started.
Spinach and Cottage Cheese Stuffed Shells
A creative twist on classic stuffed shells, this recipe combines the flavors of spinach, cottage cheese, and ricotta to create a deliciously creamy pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, combine spinach, cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-cottage cheese mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Cottage Cheese Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying dish that combines the tanginess of cottage cheese with the savory flavors of garlic and parmesan. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook 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 garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in cottage cheese until smooth and creamy.
4. Add Parmesan cheese and parsley; stir until well combined.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the garlic-parmesan mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake
This comforting pasta bake combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, basil, and creamy cottage cheese, perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 the olive oil over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they release their juices and start to soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, tomato-basil mixture, and cottage cheese. Mix well.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Lemon Herb Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the tanginess of lemon with the creaminess of cottage cheese and the brightness of fresh herbs. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 olive oil. Mix until smooth.
3. Add cooked pasta, parsley, and dill to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Cottage Cheese Pasta
This creamy and spicy pasta dish combines the tanginess of cottage cheese with the bold flavors of arrabbiata sauce, making for a unique and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– 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 large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the red pepper flakes and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the arrabbiata sauce and bring to a simmer.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the cottage cheese and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the arrabbiata sauce and toss to combine.
6. Fold in the cottage cheese mixture until well combined.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom and Cottage Cheese Fettuccine
A comforting and creamy pasta dish that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the tanginess of cottage cheese, all wrapped up in a rich fettuccine sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fettuccine
– 2 cups (250g) mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 cup (120ml) unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (240ml) cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cottage cheese and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked fettuccine with mushroom-cottage cheese mixture. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Cottage Cheese Pasta
Roasted Red Pepper Cottage Cheese Pasta: A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the tanginess of cottage cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool. Peel off the skin, discarding it, and chop the flesh into a rough puree.
4. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
6. Stir in the cottage cheese until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Combine the cooked pasta, roasted red pepper puree, and cottage cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Pesto Cottage Cheese Pasta with Pine Nuts
Pesto Cottage Cheese Pasta with Pine Nuts: A creamy and flavorful twist on classic pasta dishes, this recipe combines the richness of cottage cheese with the brightness of pesto and crunchy pine nuts.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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 medium bowl, combine cottage cheese and pesto sauce. Mix well to combine.
3. Add the toasted pine nuts to the cottage cheese mixture and stir until evenly distributed.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked pasta and toss with the cottage cheese mixture, ensuring pasta is well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional pine nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Cottage Cheese Pasta
A comforting and nutritious pasta dish that combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the flavors of broccoli, cheddar, and pasta. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Steam broccoli florets until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, and cottage cheese.
4. Add grated cheddar cheese and stir until well combined.
5. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder (if using), and onion powder (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Cottage Cheese Penne
Sun-Dried Tomato and Cottage Cheese Penne: A Creamy, Flavorful Twist on Classic Pasta
This recipe combines the tanginess of cottage cheese with the savory flavor of sun-dried tomatoes to create a unique and delicious pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, parsley, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. Mix well.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the mixture and stir until combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
8. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado Cottage Cheese Pasta with Lime
This unique pasta dish combines the richness of cottage cheese with the creaminess of avocado, all infused with a burst of lime flavor. It’s a perfect blend of comforting and refreshing, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, cottage cheese, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Mix well until smooth.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until coated with the creamy mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach Artichoke Cottage Cheese Pasta
This comforting pasta dish combines the flavors of spinach, artichokes, and cottage cheese with a hint of garlic and lemon. A perfect blend of creamy and savory, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cooked cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/2 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 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, spinach, artichoke hearts, garlic, and lemon juice. Mix well.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and stir until coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Cottage Cheese Pasta
A spicy twist on classic pasta dishes, this recipe combines the tanginess of cottage cheese with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken and penne pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun game-day snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and crumbled blue cheese for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and olive oil. Cook over medium-high heat until heated through.
3. Stir in cottage cheese until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture in the skillet. Toss until well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and crumbled blue cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramelized Onion Cottage Cheese Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, savory recipe that combines the richness of caramelized onions and cottage cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 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 pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cottage cheese and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a large serving dish, combine cooked pasta, caramelized onions, and cottage cheese mixture. Toss gently to combine.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Zucchini and Cottage Cheese Lasagna
This lasagna recipe combines the flavors of tender zucchini, creamy cottage cheese, and melted mozzarella for a unique and delicious twist on the classic Italian dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 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 slices in a little oil until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a medium bowl, combine cottage cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
5. Assemble lasagna by spreading a layer of the cheese mixture, followed by a layer of zucchini, noodles, and repeat.
6. Top with remaining cheese mixture and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Cottage Cheese Pasta
A rich and creamy pasta dish that combines the flavors of chicken alfredo with the tanginess of cottage cheese, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as fettuccine or spaghetti)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 2 cups cottage cheese
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, combine chicken, cottage cheese, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and basil. Stir over medium heat until smooth and creamy.
3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the chicken mixture until well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Cottage Cheese Linguine
Roasted Garlic and Cottage Cheese Linguine: A Creamy Twist on a Classic Pasta Dish
This recipe combines the richness of roasted garlic with the tanginess of cottage cheese, all wrapped up in a delicious linguine dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and separated into individual bulbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap each garlic bulb individually in foil, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 30-40 minutes or until soft and mashed.
3. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted garlic, cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
5. Add the blended mixture to cooked linguine and toss to combine.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mediterranean Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the bright flavors of the Mediterranean. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne)
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking pasta)
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 18 creamy cottage cheese recipes! From classic comfort foods like garlic parmesan and spinach stuffed shells, to bold flavors like spicy arrabbiata and buffalo chicken, there’s something for every taste. Try adding a twist to traditional dishes like fettuccine Alfredo or lasagna with roasted red peppers and zucchini. Or, go light and refreshing with lemon herb pasta salad or avocado penne. With cottage cheese as the base, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Explore the possibilities below!