Garlic Butter Cottage Cheese Pasta

Name: Garlic Butter Cottage Cheese Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g pasta of choice; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 150g cottage cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Instant Meals Recipes

I adore quick and effortless meals that don't compromise on flavor, and Garlic Butter Cottage Cheese Pasta is a perfect example. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a creamy, dreamy dish that satisfies my cravings. The garlic-infused butter melds perfectly with the cottage cheese, creating a luscious sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, providing comfort and satisfaction whether it's a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend brunch.

Created by

Ninas

Last updated on 2026-02-18T15:46:20.055Z

When I first tried making Garlic Butter Cottage Cheese Pasta, I was amazed at how something so simple could be so delicious. I remember the allure of the melted butter mixed with fresh garlic filling my kitchen with irresistible aromas. By using cottage cheese instead of traditional cream, I managed to keep it light yet still rich in flavor.

One tip I discovered is to save a bit of your pasta cooking water. Adding a spoonful to the sauce can help it cling beautifully to the pasta, giving it that restaurant-style finish. This little trick transformed my dish, creating a wonderfully creamy texture that I can’t resist!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy cottage cheese adds a unique twist while keeping it healthy
Infused with fragrant garlic and rich buttery goodness
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese plays a pivotal role in this Garlic Butter Cottage Cheese Pasta, providing a creamy texture without the heaviness of traditional cream sauces. Its mild flavor allows the garlic and butter to shine while adding protein, making this dish more satisfying. When mixing the cottage cheese into the pasta, aim for a smooth consistency; if you find it too chunky, a quick blend in the food processor can help achieve that desired creaminess.

Choosing the right variety of cottage cheese can enhance your dish significantly. I prefer using small-curd cottage cheese for this recipe, as it melts into the sauce beautifully, creating a cohesive blend. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, consider using a plant-based ricotta or cashew cream, but be mindful that this will alter the flavor profile slightly.

Perfecting the Garlic Butter

Cooking the garlic just right is crucial for maximizing its flavor while avoiding a bitter taste. Sauté the minced garlic in butter over medium heat; watch for that golden hue, which usually takes about 1-2 minutes. If you notice the garlic beginning to brown too quickly, lower the heat to prevent burning. I often recommend having everything prepped and ready to go, as the garlic can go from fragrant to burnt in seconds!

If you want to elevate the flavor of the garlic butter, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end. This will introduce a subtle heat and acidity that brightens the overall dish. For those who prefer a richer taste, a touch of heavy cream can be stirred in after the garlic has cooked to create an even more indulgent sauce.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

This pasta dish shines as a main course but can also serve as an exceptional side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. To amp up the nutrition, you could toss in some wilted spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes right before serving. This adds not only color but also extra layers of flavor that complement the creamy sauce beautifully.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of reserved pasta water to restore the creamy consistency, gently warming it on the stove over low heat. This pasta does not freeze exceptionally well due to the cottage cheese's texture, so it's best enjoyed fresh!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful pasta dish:

Ingredients

200g pasta of choice
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
150g cottage cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Once you have everything ready, you can easily start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious Garlic Butter Cottage Cheese Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter. Stir in the cottage cheese and a splash of reserved pasta water. Mix until creamy and well combined.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your creamy, garlic-infused pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding red pepper flakes or sautéed spinach to the dish.

Scaling the Recipe

One of the beauties of Garlic Butter Cottage Cheese Pasta is its adaptability to scale for different occasions. If you’re cooking for a larger group, simply double or triple the ingredients, ensuring you have ample pasta water set aside. Just keep in mind that you may need a larger skillet or pot to accommodate everything; overcrowding the pan can lead to uneven cooking.

For smaller portions, you can easily halve the ingredients. This recipe holds up well when made in smaller batches, and you can enjoy the same flavors without wasting ingredients. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time for the pasta slightly, especially if you're using a different shape or size.

Ingredient Variations

While this recipe highlights cottage cheese, experimenting with other cheeses can lead to delightful variations. A good-quality ricotta can lend a richer flavor, while Greek yogurt could be used for a tangy twist. If you're looking to cut down on calories, low-fat or fat-free versions of these cheeses can be substituted, but they may affect the creaminess of the sauce slightly.

Herbs can also change the profile of the dish significantly. Fresh basil or thyme stirred in at the end can add an aromatic depth, while a sprinkle of nutmeg can introduce a warm note that surprisingly complements the garlic and cheese. Feel free to play with the herbs and spices you have on hand!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese instead of cottage cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese with ricotta or cream cheese for a different flavor and texture.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can use vegan butter and replace the cottage cheese with vegan cream cheese or cashew cream.

→ What pasta works best for this recipe?

Any pasta works well! I recommend using spaghetti or penne for great sauce adherence.

→ Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance and simply combine it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.