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Cottage Cheese Alfredo: A Creamy, High-Protein Twist on a Classic


  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2-3 servings 1x

Description

A creamy, high-protein twist on classic Alfredo sauce made with blended cottage cheese for a rich, velvety texture—lighter, healthier, and easy to make in just 20 minutes!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk (or more as needed for consistency)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for added depth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
  • 8 ounces fettuccine or preferred pasta

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
    • Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Blend the Sauce
    • In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, milk, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and Italian seasoning.
    • Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Add more milk if needed for consistency.
  3. Sauté Garlic
    • In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
    • Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Combine and Heat
    • Pour the blended cottage cheese mixture into the skillet.
    • Stir continuously over medium-low heat until warmed through (about 2-3 minutes). Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
    • If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
  5. Toss with Pasta
    • Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
    • Let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to absorb the sauce.
  6. Serve and Garnish
    • Divide into plates and top with additional Parmesan cheese, freshly ground black pepper, and chopped parsley if desired.
    • Enjoy immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Add Protein: Mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based cottage cheese and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan; swap almond or oat milk for regular milk.
  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
  • Extra Veggies: Stir in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: pasta ,Healthy Recipes
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: italian inspired

Keywords: Cottage Cheese Alfredo, High-Protein Alfredo, Healthy Pasta Sauce, Low-Fat Alfredo, Easy Alfredo Recipe