Are you tired of the same old pasta dishes? Look no further! This collection of 19 creamy cottage cheese pasta recipes will take your taste buds on a wild ride. From classic comfort foods to fresh and flavorful salads, these dishes showcase the versatility of cottage cheese in pasta dishes.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, there’s something here for everyone. With ingredients like spinach, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and more, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these mouth-watering recipes and explore how cottage cheese can elevate your pasta dishes from ordinary to extraordinary.
Spinach and Cottage Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells
A creamy and flavorful twist on classic pasta shells, this recipe combines cooked spinach, cottage cheese, and Parmesan for a deliciously comforting dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 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
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, cottage cheese, Parmesan, and beaten egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the spinach-cottage cheese mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish, seam-side down. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set and the shells are lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Lemon Cottage Cheese Pasta with Fresh Herbs
This refreshing pasta dish combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the brightness of lemon and freshness of herbs, making it a perfect spring-inspired meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a light and satisfying dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 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 Dijon mustard. Mix until smooth.
3. Add chopped parsley and dill to the bowl and stir to combine.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the creamy cottage cheese mixture, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake
A creamy, cheesy pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal. This recipe combines the richness of cottage cheese with the savory flavors of garlic and parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
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 bowl, combine cottage cheese, garlic, and parmesan cheese. Mix well.
4. Add cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and stir until coated.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Basil Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the brightness of fresh tomatoes and basil, making it a perfect side dish for any gathering. With its light and airy texture, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your next potluck or picnic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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, cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Cottage Cheese Pasta
Add a kick to your pasta game with this creamy, spicy, and satisfying dish that combines the richness of cottage cheese with the bold flavors of arrabbiata sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
– 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 bowl, combine cottage cheese, arrabbiata sauce, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Mix well until smooth.
3. Add cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and toss 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
Mushroom and Thyme Cottage Cheese Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms and thyme with the tanginess of cottage cheese, creating a delightful and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/4 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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 mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in thyme and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cottage cheese and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom mixture, and cottage cheese mixture. Toss until well combined.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Kale Cottage Cheese Pasta
Roasted Garlic and Kale Cottage Cheese Pasta: A creamy, comforting pasta dish packed with the flavors of roasted garlic and wilted kale.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 2 cloves of garlic
– 1 bunch of curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves chopped
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for roasting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the garlic cloves in a small baking dish with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped kale and cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, roasted garlic, and wilted kale in a large serving bowl. Stir in cottage cheese and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Cottage Cheese Pasta Toss
This recipe combines the creamy richness of cottage cheese with the savory flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped up in a quick and easy pasta dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in cottage cheese and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is slightly thickened.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the cheese mixture until well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Cottage Cheese Pasta with Toasted Pine Nuts
This creamy pasta dish combines the rich flavors of pesto and cottage cheese with the crunch of toasted pine nuts, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 tbsp. pesto
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– 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, pesto, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix well until smooth.
3. Add cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and toss until coated.
4. Sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the top of the pasta and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken and Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake
This creamy pasta bake combines spicy buffalo chicken with the tanginess of cottage cheese, all wrapped up in a comforting casserole. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a satisfying brunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup buffalo sauce
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 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 bowl, combine chicken, buffalo sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cottage cheese and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange cooked pasta in an even layer. Top with the chicken mixture, followed by the cottage cheese mixture.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and garnish with parsley.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Cottage Cheese Pasta
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the tanginess of cottage cheese, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. Stir in butter until melted. Add cottage cheese and stir until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked pasta, caramelized onion mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss until well coated.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and serve hot. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tuscan-Style Cottage Cheese Pasta with White Beans
A creamy, comforting pasta dish that combines the flavors of Italy with the simplicity of cottage cheese and white beans. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or linguine)
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 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 bowl, combine cottage cheese, cannellini beans, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss with the cottage cheese mixture until well coated.
4. Stir in chopped parsley and serve hot. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mediterranean Cottage Cheese Pasta with Olives and Feta
This recipe combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the tanginess of feta, all wrapped up in a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 medium bowl, combine cottage cheese, olives, feta, parsley, and garlic. Mix well to combine.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until the pasta is well coated with the cheese mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, drizzled with olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Yogurt and Cottage Cheese Pasta with Cucumber
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines the creaminess of Greek yogurt and cottage cheese with the cooling crunch of cucumber. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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 medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt and cottage cheese. Mix until smooth.
3. Add sliced cucumber to the yogurt mixture and stir gently.
4. Toss cooked pasta with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine pasta and yogurt-cucumber mixture. Stir until well combined.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado Lime Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the brightness of lime and the richness of avocado, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced avocado, cottage cheese, and chopped cilantro.
3. Squeeze the lime juice over the top and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (pasta cooking time)
Cajun Shrimp and Cottage Cheese Pasta
A spicy twist on a classic pasta dish, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun shrimp with the creamy richness of cottage cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 8 ounces pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine or linguine)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, onion, and garlic; cook until pink and slightly charred, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Stir in Cajun seasoning and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cottage cheese and cooked pasta.
5. To serve, place pasta mixture on a plate, top with shrimp mixture, and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful sauce, perfect for a cozy night in. Roasting red peppers adds a sweet and smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the tanginess of cottage cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red peppers 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 place the roasted flesh in a blender or food processor.
4. In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix well to combine.
5. Add the blended red pepper mixture to the cheese mixture and stir until smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately over cooked pasta, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Honey Dijon Cottage Cheese Pasta with Chicken
This recipe combines the comfort of pasta with the tanginess of honey and dijon mustard, all wrapped up in a creamy cottage cheese sauce. A perfect weeknight dinner that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup cottage cheese
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine chicken, honey, and dijon mustard. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is well combined and heated through.
3. Stir in cottage cheese and heavy cream until smooth.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated with the sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Strawberry and Cottage Cheese Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tanginess of balsamic glaze and the creaminess of cottage cheese, all on a bed of pasta. The perfect fusion of flavors for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
– 1/2 cup cottage cheese
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine sliced strawberries and balsamic glaze. Bring to a simmer over medium heat until the strawberries are coated in the glaze.
3. Stir in cottage cheese and honey until smooth. Season with salt to taste.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with strawberry-balsamic mixture.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a creamy culinary adventure with these 19 flavorful recipes featuring cottage cheese as the star ingredient! From classic pasta dishes like Spinach and Cottage Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells, to innovative salads like Avocado Lime Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bake, a light and refreshing salad, or a bold and spicy sauce, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Dive into the world of creamy cottage cheese pasta and discover new flavors to love!
