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Quick Creamy Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta

Close-up of creamy, cheesy protein pasta being lifted high on a fork from a plate.
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Make this high protein pasta dish in under 20 minutes using a simple, creamy sauce based on cottage cheese. This recipe delivers over 25g of protein per serving and is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

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  • 12 oz high-protein pasta or whole wheat pasta
  • 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup pasta water, reserved
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella or 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast for extra protein

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, black pepper, and salt.
  3. Blend the mixture until it is completely smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon of the reserved pasta water at a time until you reach a smooth, pourable sauce consistency.
  4. Return the drained pasta to the pot over low heat. Pour the creamy sauce over the pasta.
  5. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the pasta is fully coated and the sauce is heated through. Do not boil the sauce.
  6. If using, stir in cooked chicken or mozzarella cheese until melted.
  7. Serve immediately. This is a great protein packed dinner idea.

Notes

  • For a garlic parmesan protein pasta flavor boost, sauté the minced garlic in the olive oil for 30 seconds before adding it to the blender.
  • This recipe is excellent for meal prep protein pasta. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water if the sauce thickens upon cooling.
  • If you do not have a high-speed blender, press the cottage cheese through a fine-mesh sieve before blending to remove lumps.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://dishicious.com/quick-creamy-protein-pasta-dinner/