Name: Silky Cottage Cheese Alfredo: A Lighter Classic
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups cottage cheese (4% fat); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup half and half; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 pound linguine + ½ cup pasta water; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; Extra grated Parmesan for serving

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Cottage Cheese Alfredo is a delightful spin on the classic Italian dish. This version is silky, comforting, and surprisingly light, made with blended cottage cheese and rich Parmesan cheese. The simple seasonings create a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to every strand of pasta. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and uses pantry-friendly ingredients, ensuring you have everything you need. Let’s dive into this comforting recipe that offers the richness of traditional Alfredo but with a lighter twist!

Why You’ll Love This Cottage Cheese Alfredo

This dish serves up a plethora of benefits that make it a must-try! First, it’s a Healthy Alfredo Sauce with Cottage Cheese that significantly cuts calories without sacrificing flavor. Second, it’s ideal for those pursuing Cottage Cheese Alfredo for Weight Loss, as it’s both nutritious and satisfying. The recipe is easy to make, making it a go-to for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a vegetarian option, catering to a wide range of diets. The creamy texture mimics that of traditional Alfredo, providing all the comfort food vibes without the guilt. It also works well for meal prep, so you can enjoy delicious leftovers!

Ingredients for Cottage Cheese Alfredo

Gather these items:

2 cups cottage cheese (4% fat)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup half and half
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 pound linguine + ½ cup pasta water
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Extra grated Parmesan for serving

How to Make Cottage Cheese Alfredo Step-by-Step

Step 1: Boil the pasta: Fill a large pot with water and season it with a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, add linguine, and cook until just past al dente. Stir occasionally.
Step 2: Blend the Alfredo sauce: Add cottage cheese, Parmesan, half and half, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to a blender. Blend until smooth, about 30–60 seconds.
Step 3: Warm the sauce: Pour the blended sauce into a skillet over medium heat. Stir gently as it warms, adding pasta water or half and half to adjust consistency if needed.
Step 4: Combine pasta and sauce: Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, drain the rest, and toss the pasta in the warm sauce until coated. Add pasta water gradually if too thick.
Step 5: Serve: Adjust seasoning, add chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately while the sauce is hot.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cottage Cheese Alfredo

Keep these in mind:

This dish is best served immediately as the sauce thickens as it cools.
Adjust garlic and onion powder to taste for a bolder flavor.
Feel free to add vegetables or proteins for extra nutrition, like spinach or grilled chicken.
For a fun twist, try a Creamy Garlic Cottage Cheese Alfredo version by adding minced garlic.

Best Ways to Serve Cottage Cheese Alfredo

This delicious pasta dish can be served in various delightful ways. Pair it with a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal. For a heartier option, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, making it a Quick Cottage Cheese Alfredo Dish that satisfies!

How to Store and Reheat Cottage Cheese Alfredo

This Cottage Cheese Alfredo is perfect for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of half and half or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess. This ensures you enjoy your delightful dish even on busy days!

Silky Cottage Cheese Alfredo: A Lighter Classic - Cottage Cheese Alfredo - additional detail

Frequently Asked Questions About Cottage Cheese Alfredo

What’s the secret to perfect Cottage Cheese Alfredo?

The secret lies in blending the cottage cheese until it’s completely smooth. This creates a creamy texture that mimics traditional Alfredo while keeping it light. Using quality Parmesan also enhances the flavor, making it a Homemade Cottage Cheese Alfredo that you’ll love.

Can I make Cottage Cheese Alfredo ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve, and add the pasta just before dining. This makes it a fantastic option for Cottage Cheese Alfredo for Meal Prep.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cottage Cheese Alfredo?

Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it can become mushy when mixed with the sauce. Also, be cautious not to let the sauce boil after blending. Gently warming it ensures that you maintain the creamy texture of this healthy dish.

Variations of Cottage Cheese Alfredo You Can Try

There are so many delicious variations to explore! For a Low-Carb Cottage Cheese Alfredo, substitute the linguine with zucchini noodles. Another tasty option is to add sautéed spinach for a Cottage Cheese Alfredo with Spinach version that boosts nutrition and flavor. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your dream sauce!