Enjoy a healthier twist on the classic Alfredo sauce with this creamy and protein-packed version made from cottage cheese. This lightened-up dish offers the same rich flavors you love, perfect for a comforting yet nutritious meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Protein-packed – Cottage cheese makes this a high-protein, satisfying meal.
- Healthier alternative – Lower in fat and calories than traditional Alfredo sauce.
- Super quick – Ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Creamy and delicious – A smooth, velvety sauce without heavy cream.
- Easily customizable – Add veggies or protein for a complete meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fettuccine or pasta of choice
- Low-fat cottage cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Unsalted butter
- Garlic, minced
- Milk (any variety)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
- In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and milk.
- Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour the blended cottage cheese mixture into the skillet with the garlic.
- Stir well to combine and heat through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce.
- Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach the desired consistency.
4. Serve
- Divide the pasta among serving plates.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy cottage cheese Alfredo!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving
Variations
- Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in steamed broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrients.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to keep it gluten-free.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Use dairy-free cottage cheese and plant-based milk.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the sauce may separate when thawed.
FAQs
1. Can I use full-fat cottage cheese?
Yes! Full-fat cottage cheese makes the sauce even creamier.
2. What’s the best pasta for this recipe?
Fettuccine is classic, but penne, linguine, or spaghetti work too.
3. Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, but store it separately from the pasta and reheat gently before serving.
4. How do I make the sauce extra smooth?
Blend the cottage cheese mixture thoroughly for the silkiest texture.
5. Can I add other cheeses?
Absolutely! Try adding shredded mozzarella or a touch of Gruyère for extra richness.
6. What kind of milk works best?
Whole milk gives the creamiest result, but any milk (including almond or oat) works.
7. Can I use fresh Parmesan instead of pre-grated?
Yes! Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has superior flavor.
8. How do I prevent the sauce from clumping?
Use room-temperature ingredients and stir continuously while heating.
9. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, but reheat gently and add a little extra milk to refresh the sauce.
10. Can I make this low-carb?
Yes! Serve it over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
Conclusion
This easy cottage cheese Alfredo is a game-changer for pasta lovers looking for a healthier, protein-packed alternative to traditional Alfredo sauce. Creamy, delicious, and incredibly simple to make, this dish is perfect for a quick and comforting meal. Try it today and enjoy a guilt-free, satisfying dinner!
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Easy Cottage Cheese Alfredo
This Easy Cottage Cheese Alfredo is a healthier, protein-packed twist on classic Alfredo sauce! Made with blended cottage cheese, Parmesan, and garlic, this rich and creamy sauce is lower in fat and calories but still full of flavor. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s the perfect quick and nutritious meal for pasta lovers!
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine (or pasta of choice)
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup milk (any variety)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (if needed)
- Optional: Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
- In a blender or food processor, blend cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, and milk until smooth.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour the blended cottage cheese mixture into the skillet and stir well.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until heated through.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
- Divide among plates and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy, healthy Alfredo!
Notes
- Extra Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a GF version.
- Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk for creaminess.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
