Cottage Cheese Pasta

Cottage Cheese Pasta is a creamy, protein-packed dish featuring tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and a rich, smooth cottage cheese sauce. With the perfect balance of savory flavors, this pasta dish is both comforting and satisfying. It’s quick to prepare and makes for a perfect weeknight dinner the whole family will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cottage Cheese Pasta takes classic creamy pasta to the next level by using cottage cheese for a lighter yet rich sauce. The chicken is seasoned and cooked to perfection, adding savory depth, while the spinach brings a pop of color and nutrition. The cottage cheese sauce is silky, slightly tangy, and perfectly coats every bite of pasta, making it a delightful and healthy alternative to traditional alfredo.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:
1 teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (for cooking chicken)

For the Pasta:
16 oz dry penne pasta
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (for pasta)

For the Sauce:
2 cups whole milk or 2% small curd cottage cheese (we love Good Culture)
2 cups whole milk
1 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
2 small garlic cloves, finely chopped
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
6 oz baby spinach
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Season and Cook the Chicken:

1. In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Rub the seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.

2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

2. Cook the Pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until just shy of al dente, about 1 minute less than the package instructions.

2. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and toss the pasta with 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large bowl to prevent sticking.

3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, milk, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and 1 teaspoon salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

4. Prepare the Roux:

1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.

5. Finish the Sauce:

1. Pour the blended cottage cheese sauce into the skillet with the roux. Simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently, until thickened, about 4-5 minutes.

2. Add the spinach and stir until wilted.

6. Combine:

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy mixture. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.

7. Serve:

1. Plate the pasta and top with the sliced chicken.

2. Garnish with crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Toss in other veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added texture and flavor.

• Use different pasta: While penne works great for this recipe, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli, spaghetti, or rigatoni.

• Spicy version: For a spicier dish, add more crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle some on top before serving.

• Make it dairy-free: Substitute the cottage cheese with dairy-free cheese and the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, you can use cooked shrimp, ground turkey, or even a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time, then just cook the pasta and combine everything when ready to serve.

Can I freeze this dish?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can freeze the pasta and sauce (without the chicken) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I use store-bought alfredo sauce instead of making the cottage cheese sauce?

Yes, if you’re in a pinch, you can use store-bought alfredo sauce, but the cottage cheese sauce adds a light, creamy texture with a fresh flavor.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming too sticky?

Toss the drained pasta with olive oil immediately after cooking to keep it from sticking together.

Conclusion

Cottage Cheese Pasta is a deliciously creamy and satisfying dish that combines the goodness of cottage cheese and fresh spinach with perfectly cooked chicken and pasta. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a hearty weeknight meal. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and comforting pasta make it an all-around winner. Enjoy this flavorful, protein-packed pasta with your family or friends!

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