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Homemade Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce recipe photo

Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce

This Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce is a creamy, protein-packed delight that transforms your pasta into a nourishing meal!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta:
  • 1 pound rigatoni
For the Sauce:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 medium onion chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes
  • 1 16 oz jar roasted red peppers drained
  • 3/4 cup cottage cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil plus extra for serving
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • to taste Kosher salt
  • to taste black pepper
For Serving:
  • Parmesan cheese
  • crushed red pepper flakes
  • basil leaves

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Blender or Food Processor
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander

Method
 

Directions:
  1. Step 1: Cook the Pasta
    Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in your rigatoni or pasta of choice and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
  2. Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, making sure not to let it burn.
  3. Step 3: Build the Sauce
    Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld. Next, add the diced tomatoes and roasted red peppers to the skillet, stirring to combine. Let this mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Step 4: Blend It Up
    Transfer the tomato and pepper mixture to a blender or food processor. Add the cottage cheese, fresh basil, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
  5. Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
    Pour the blended sauce back into the skillet and heat it over low heat. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
  6. Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
    Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra fresh basil, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Enjoy the delightful flavors and creamy texture of your Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce!

Notes

  • For a dairy-free version, substitute cottage cheese with a vegan cream cheese or cashew cream.
  • Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes if in season.
  • Add in some sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.