This Cottage Cheese Tomato Pasta is a fun and creamy dish that’s easy to whip up. With soft cottage cheese mixed into a tasty tomato sauce, it’s both comforting and satisfying!
You can add some herbs for extra flavor, but honestly, it’s delicious just as it is! I love how quick it comes together—perfect for busy nights when you still want something yummy! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like using small shells or gnocchetti sardi for this dish, but any pasta you have on hand, like penne or rotini, will work just fine. Whole wheat pasta is a great healthier option too.
Cottage Cheese: This is the star of the dish! If you’re not a fan, you could use ricotta cheese for a similar creamy texture or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes are sweet and flavorful, but if they aren’t in season, canned cherry tomatoes or diced tomatoes can be a good substitute. They will also give a nice sauce-like consistency.
Basil: Fresh basil adds such a nice touch, but if you don’t have any, dried basil can be used. Just use less, as dried herbs are more potent. If you’re looking for a unique flavor, try fresh spinach or arugula instead!
How Do You Create a Creamy Sauce with Cottage Cheese?
The trick to making a creamy sauce with cottage cheese is all about mixing it correctly! Start by cooking your garlic and tomatoes until they’re soft and fragrant. Then, while on low heat, add the cottage cheese and grated Parmesan.
- Mix gently to combine; the heat will help the cottage cheese melt and create a smooth texture.
- If the sauce is too thick, use a bit of reserved pasta cooking water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Lastly, be sure to toss the cooked pasta in the sauce thoroughly for even coating.
This technique ensures that the cottage cheese blends beautifully with the tomatoes for a luscious, delicious dish!
Cottage Cheese Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (such as gnocchetti sardi or small shell pasta)
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus extra whole leaves for garnish
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20-25 minutes from start to finish, including time to boil the pasta and prepare the sauce. It’s a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before you drain it—this will help make your sauce creamy!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it smells amazing, but be careful not to let it brown.
3. Cook the Tomatoes:
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Let them cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and start to break apart. Season them with a bit of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now, turn the heat down low. Stir in the cottage cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing gently until everything is combined into a creamy sauce. If it seems too thick, just add a splash of that reserved pasta cooking water to loosen it up a bit.
5. Combine with Pasta:
Add your cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it all together so that the pasta is nicely coated in that delicious sauce. Mix in the chopped fresh basil and taste your pasta to see if you need any extra salt or pepper.
6. Serve!
Plate your Cottage Cheese Tomato Pasta and garnish with extra grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves. Dive in and enjoy this creamy, comforting dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While gnocchetti sardi or small shell pasta work well, you can use any pasta you prefer—penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta will do the trick. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package.
What Can I Substitute for Cottage Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, ricotta cheese is a great alternative for a similar creamy texture. Greek yogurt can also work for a tangier flavor, but it may alter the taste slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add in veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Sauté them with the garlic before adding the tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
