Cottage cheese Alfredo is a healthier twist on the classic Alfredo sauce, offering the same creamy and indulgent flavor with less fat and more protein. This lightened-up version is quick to make and pairs perfectly with pasta, vegetables, or even as a dip for breadsticks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein: Cottage cheese adds a protein boost to this creamy sauce.
- Lighter Option: A healthier alternative to traditional Alfredo sauce with reduced fat and calories.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Use it with pasta, as a pizza sauce, or over roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cottage cheese (regular or low-fat)
- Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- Garlic, minced or garlic powder
- Milk (dairy or plant-based)
- Olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Directions
- In a blender, combine cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, milk, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Pour the blended mixture into the saucepan and cook, stirring frequently, until warmed through and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Avoid boiling.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more milk if the sauce is too thick.
- Serve immediately over your favorite pasta or vegetables, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 4 servings (sauce for 1 pound of pasta)
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy Alfredo sauce.
- Herb Infusion: Blend in fresh basil, parsley, or oregano for an herbaceous twist.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based cottage cheese and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Mushroom Alfredo: Sauté mushrooms and mix them into the sauce for added depth.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought grated Parmesan?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better, but store-bought can be used for convenience.
2. What type of cottage cheese works best?
Small curd cottage cheese blends smoothly and works best for a creamy sauce.
3. Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce in advance and reheat gently before serving.
4. Is this sauce suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, the sauce is naturally gluten-free. Pair it with gluten-free pasta if needed.
5. Can I use this sauce for pizza?
Absolutely! It works as a creamy base for white pizza recipes.
6. How do I prevent the sauce from separating?
Cook the sauce over low to medium heat and avoid boiling to keep it smooth.
7. Can I use low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese?
Yes, but the sauce may be slightly less creamy. Adding a splash of milk can help.
8. How can I thicken the sauce?
Simmer the sauce longer or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.
9. What pasta pairs best with this Alfredo sauce?
Fettuccine, linguine, or penne are great choices, but any pasta will work.
10. Can I add protein to the dish?
Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu make excellent additions to this sauce.
Conclusion
Cottage cheese Alfredo is a creamy, healthier alternative to the classic Alfredo sauce. Packed with protein and full of flavor, it’s a versatile and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for pasta lovers looking for a lighter option. Try it with your favorite pasta or vegetables, and enjoy a delicious, guilt-free meal!
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Cottage Cheese Alfredo
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course, Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Description
This Cottage Cheese Alfredo is a lighter, protein-packed twist on the classic Alfredo sauce. Creamy and rich, it’s made with wholesome ingredients that deliver all the flavor without the guilt. Perfect for pairing with pasta, zoodles, or as a sauce for vegetables.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup (240 g) cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pasta (Optional):
- 300 g (10 oz) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
- 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Prepare the Sauce:
- Blend the Cottage Cheese:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, milk, Parmesan cheese, and nutmeg (if using). Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Sauté the Garlic:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Combine and Warm the Sauce:
- Pour the blended cottage cheese mixture into the skillet with the garlic. Stir to combine and heat gently over low-medium heat. Do not let it boil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the Pasta (Optional):
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Toss with Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Serve:
- Plate and Garnish:
- Serve the pasta warm, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Add Protein: For extra protein, mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms.
- Gluten-Free Option: Pair with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles (zoodles).
- Storage: Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.