Cottage Cheese Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cottage Cheese Pasta combines the best of both worlds – the richness of a traditional pasta dish with the light, creamy texture of cottage cheese. The marinara sauce and Italian seasoning bring bold, savory flavors, while the cottage cheese adds a velvety finish that perfectly complements the tender chicken and rigatoni pasta. Topped with fresh basil and grated Parmesan, it’s a dish that’s easy to make, filling, and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients

• 3 cups uncooked rigatoni pasta
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lb chicken mince
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
• ½ cup cottage cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Fresh basil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, or until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Cook the chicken and aromatics: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Brown the chicken: Add the chicken mince to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked. Season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
4. Add marinara sauce and cottage cheese: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the chicken. Stir in the cottage cheese, and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Adjust seasoning to taste with salt and pepper.
5. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet with the sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
6. Serve: Serve the Cottage Cheese Pasta hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken mince with a plant-based protein, such as lentils or crumbled tofu, for a vegetarian option.
• Different Pasta: If you don’t have rigatoni, you can use penne, farfalle, or any pasta shape of your choice.
• Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for more heat.
• Cheese Add-ins: For an extra cheesy dish, mix in shredded mozzarella or ricotta along with the cottage cheese.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or extra marinara sauce to help loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cottage cheese?

Yes! If you prefer a different type of cheese, you can swap cottage cheese for ricotta or even cream cheese for a creamier texture.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving.

3. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken mince?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative to chicken mince in this recipe.

4. Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

You can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta in place of regular rigatoni.

5. Can I freeze this pasta?

Yes, you can freeze this dish in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.

6. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought marinara sauce works just as well in this recipe. Just make sure to choose one that’s flavorful and high-quality.

7. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce to give the dish some heat.

8. Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, feel free to substitute the rigatoni with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.

9. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can easily add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.

10. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, replace the cottage cheese with a non-dairy alternative like cashew cream or a dairy-free ricotta, and omit the Parmesan garnish.

Conclusion

Cottage Cheese Pasta is a delicious and comforting twist on your typical pasta bake. The combination of lean chicken, hearty marinara sauce, and creamy cottage cheese creates a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Enjoy it with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil for the perfect finishing touch!

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