Cottage Cheese Pasta Recipe
A flavorful fusion of lean ground turkey and pasta, enveloped in a velvety cottage cheese-infused marinara, this protein-rich dish is a weeknight essential. With minimal prep and cook time, it offers a wholesome and hearty meal in just 30 minutes.
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Servings: 4
Ingredients
- ½ cup whole milk cottage cheese
- 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 24 oz jar marinara sauce such as Rao’s
- Fresh basil for garnish
- 3 large garlic cloves minced
- 1 lb ground turkey
- Fresh parmesan for garnish
- 8 oz dry pasta of choice e.g., rigatoni
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta in accordance with the package directions; once cooked, drain thoroughly and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium flame. Sauté the chopped onion for 5-6 minutes until it becomes aromatic and translucent, seasoning with salt and pepper. Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Introduce the ground turkey into the skillet and cook, using a spatula or wooden spoon to crumble it evenly. Continue until the meat is browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
- Meanwhile, combine marinara sauce and cottage cheese in a blender and process until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Pour the blended sauce over the turkey in the skillet, add the cooked pasta, and stir until everything is thoroughly mixed and heated through.
- Serve portions of the pasta onto individual plates or bowls. Finish with a sprinkling of fresh parmesan and a few torn basil leaves for garnish.
Notes
Pasta Choice: Rigatoni was used, but any pasta variety can be substituted, including high-protein options like chickpea or lentil pasta.
Cottage Cheese: Ricotta serves as an effective alternative, although cottage cheese offers a higher protein content and smooth consistency when blended.
Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional profile by incorporating sautéed vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms along with the aromatics.
Herbs: Fresh basil complements this dish well, though herbs like parsley, oregano, or thyme may be used to suit your preference.
Cottage Cheese: Ricotta serves as an effective alternative, although cottage cheese offers a higher protein content and smooth consistency when blended.
Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional profile by incorporating sautéed vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms along with the aromatics.
Herbs: Fresh basil complements this dish well, though herbs like parsley, oregano, or thyme may be used to suit your preference.