Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta (Gluten Free, High Protein) Recipe

Introduction

This creamy cottage cheese pasta is a deliciously simple dish that’s gluten free, high in protein, and low in sugar. It combines smooth, cheesy sauce with tender pasta for a comforting meal you can make in under 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a nourishing and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 box pasta (cooked according to package directions)
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1 clove garlic
• Optional toppings: parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve about 1/3 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
2. Step 2: In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, marinara sauce, garlic, and any additional spices you like. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Step 3: Add the reserved pasta water to the blended sauce and stir to combine, adjusting the consistency as needed.
4. Step 4: Pour the sauce over the drained pasta and toss until the pasta is evenly coated.
5. Step 5: Top with parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Use red lentil, brown rice, or cassava pasta for gluten-free options with extra fiber and protein.
• Try adding fresh basil, Italian seasoning, or black pepper to the sauce for extra flavor.
• For a spicy twist, use a spicy marinara sauce or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top.
• Add cooked spinach, grilled chicken, or chicken meatballs for a heartier meal.
• Full-fat cottage cheese tends to yield the creamiest, richest sauce.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or pasta water to loosen the sauce, or enjoy cold as a pasta salad.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer. The recipe works well with regular, gluten-free, or legume-based pastas.

Will the cottage cheese flavor be strong?

The cottage cheese adds creaminess and protein but has a mild flavor that blends well with marinara. Most people won’t even notice it’s there!

Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta (Gluten Free, High Protein) Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 104 reviews

• Author: Lana
• Total Time: 17 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This creamy cottage cheese pasta is a quick and healthy gluten-free meal that boasts high protein, low carbs, and low sugar. Featuring red lentil pasta spirals coated in a smooth, cheesy marinara sauce blended with cottage cheese and garlic, it delivers a perfectly balanced dish rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Topped with parmesan flakes and red pepper flakes for added texture and flavor, this versatile pasta is ideal for a nourishing weeknight lunch or dinner and can be customized with various toppings.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

• 1 box gluten-free pasta (such as red lentil pasta, brown rice pasta, or cassava pasta), cooked according to package instructions
• 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese (e.g., Good Culture or Kalona Super Natural)
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Optional Toppings

• Shredded parmesan cheese
• Red pepper flakes
• Fresh spinach
• Organic chicken meatballs
• Drizzle of hot honey

Optional Spices for Sauce

• Fresh basil
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your gluten-free pasta according to the package directions. When done, reserve 1/4 cup to 1/3 cup of the pasta cooking water and then drain the pasta thoroughly. Set aside.
2. Prepare the sauce: In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine 1 cup of full-fat cottage cheese, 1/2 cup of marinara sauce, the minced garlic clove, and any optional spices such as fresh basil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
3. Adjust the sauce consistency: Add the reserved pasta water gradually to the blended sauce and mix well to achieve a creamy, pourable consistency that will coat the pasta evenly.
4. Combine pasta and sauce: Pour the creamy cottage cheese marinara sauce over the cooked and drained pasta. Toss gently until all the pasta spirals are fully coated with the sauce.
5. Add toppings and serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with shredded parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes for extra flavor and texture. Optionally, add fresh spinach, chicken meatballs, or a drizzle of hot honey to customize your dish. Enjoy warm or cold according to your preference.

Notes

• Use full-fat cottage cheese for the creamiest and most flavorful sauce.
• You can substitute lentil pasta with any gluten-free pasta or regular pasta if desired.
• Reserve pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the noodles.
• Customize toppings to fit your taste or dietary needs, adding protein like chicken meatballs or fresh veggies.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated gently on the stovetop or enjoyed cold.
• This recipe is low in carbs and sugar, making it suitable for keto and other low-carb diets.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: 4 ingredient, 5 ingredient, cottage cheese, easy dinner, easy lunch, easy meals, easy recipe, gluten free, gluten free pasta, healthier recipes, high protein, low carb, low sugar, pasta