Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta
This Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta combines ground turkey with your favorite pasta and a rich, creamy marinara sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it makes a simple and satisfying weeknight dinner for everyone.
The creamy sauce adds richness without feeling heavy, and the cottage cheese adds extra protein. Ground turkey keeps the dish light but satisfying, and a sprinkle of fresh basil and parmesan brings a finishing touch.
If you like this recipe, you might also enjoy creamy pumpkin pasta, cottage cheese mac and cheese, or ground turkey pasta for similar hearty meals.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS CREAMY COTTAGE CHEESE PASTA RECIPE
- PROTEIN-PACKED: Combines ground turkey and cottage cheese for a filling meal.
- QUICK & EASY: Simple ingredients and steps make this dish ready fast.
- FLAVORFUL: The creamy sauce blends perfectly with marinara for a rich taste.
- VERSATILE: Swap pasta types or add vegetables for extra nutrition.
- CROWD-PLEASER: A comforting dish that suits both kids and adults.
INGREDIENTS NEEDED
- Pasta – Any kind works; rigatoni, spaghetti, farfalle, fusilli, or fettuccini are great options.
- Olive oil – For sautéing onion and garlic, adds a mild, fruity flavor.
- Yellow onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
- Garlic cloves – For flavor.
- Ground turkey – A lean protein that keeps the pasta filling.
- Marinara sauce – Any quality tomato sauce works.
- Whole milk cottage cheese – Adds creaminess and protein.
- Salt and black pepper – To taste.
- Fresh basil – For serving and freshness.
- Parmesan cheese – Optional topping for extra flavor.
SUBSTITUTIONS & NOTES
- Pasta – Any kind works. Chickpea pasta or gluten-free options can be used.
- Protein – Ground chicken, beef, tofu, or tempeh can replace turkey.
- Sauce – Any tomato-based sauce works, including homemade versions.
- Herbs – Basil, oregano, or rosemary add extra flavor.
- Spice – Add hot sauce or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Cheese – Mozzarella or feta can be added for variety.
- Sauce consistency – Save ½–1 cup of pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
HOW TO MAKE
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft. Add garlic and cook 1–2 more minutes.
- Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until fully browned.
- Blend the marinara sauce and cottage cheese until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked turkey, then add the drained pasta. Stir to combine.
TIP: Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to come together and the cottage cheese to melt completely.
WHAT TO SERVE WITH THIS CREAMY COTTAGE CHEESE PASTA
- Salad – A green salad adds freshness. Kale Caesar or a citrus salad works well.
- Steamed vegetables – Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are simple sides.
- Garlic bread – Soaks up extra sauce for a comforting side.
- Wine – Red or white wine complements the pasta.
- Fruit salad – Balances the savory flavors.
- Meatballs – Optional: baked turkey or lentil meatballs for variety.
HOW TO STORE
Let leftovers cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
CAN I PREPARE THIS AHEAD OF TIME?
Yes. Keep pasta and sauce separate to prevent sogginess. Combine and reheat when ready to serve.
Looking for more ideas? Try these other easy and tasty meals:
- Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
- Ground Beef Alfredo
- Rotisserie Chicken Salad
- Chipotle Chicken Recipe
- Philly Cheesesteak
- Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Greek Chicken Bowls
- Creamy Garlic Chicken
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Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz dry pasta any type works; rigatoni is a great choice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion chopped
- 3 large garlic cloves minced
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 jar 24 oz marinara sauce
- ½ cup whole milk cottage cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Fresh parmesan for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the turkey mixture: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5–6 minutes until soft and slightly translucent. Season with salt and pepper. Add minced garlic and cook 1–2 more minutes.
- Cook the turkey: Add ground turkey to the skillet and break it apart with a spatula or wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes.
- Make the creamy sauce: While the turkey cooks, combine marinara sauce and cottage cheese in a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Combine everything: Pour the sauce over the cooked turkey in the skillet. Add the drained pasta and stir until well coated.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and top with fresh parmesan and basil before serving.
Notes
- Pasta choice: Any pasta works here. Rigatoni is great for holding the sauce, but high-protein options like chickpea or lentil pasta are excellent too.
- Cottage cheese alternative: Ricotta can be used instead, giving the same creamy texture. Cottage cheese adds extra protein and blends smoothly with the marinara.
- Add vegetables: You can mix in sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms with the onion and garlic for more nutrients.
- Herbs: Fresh basil is ideal, but parsley, oregano, or thyme also work well. Try your favorite herbs to adjust the flavor.
Nutrition
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