Creamy, comforting, and packed with protein, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. The rich flavors come together beautifully, making it a family favorite. It’s easy to prepare and uses simple ingredients most of us already have at home.

Why You Will Love This Creamy High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta

This dish is a delightful balance of taste and nutrition. Not only is it quick to make, but it’s also very satisfying with its creamy texture and hearty ingredients. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while keeping the meal kid-friendly. Plus, with the addition of cottage cheese, you’re getting a boost of protein that helps everyone feel full and happy.

How to Make Creamy High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta

Making this meal is simple and straightforward. You’ll start by cooking the pasta while sautéing the veggies and turkey in a skillet. Then, it all comes together with a smooth, creamy sauce that’s rich in flavor. Just toss everything together and enjoy a warm, cozy meal any night of the week!

What You Need

8 oz pasta (rotini or penne works best)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup onion (diced (120 grams))
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 lb ground turkey (93/7 lean)
2 cups red bell pepper (diced (220 grams, about 2 medium peppers))
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (use less for less spicy)
3 cups spinach (packed and chopped (90 grams))
Salt and pepper (to taste)
2 cups pasta sauce (marinara)
1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat)
Fresh basil (for topping)
Grated parmesan cheese (for topping)

Step-by-Step

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
While the pasta cooks, dice the onion, mince the garlic, dice the bell pepper, and chop the spinach.
Heat olive oil in a large 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Add diced onions with a pinch of salt and pepper, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add ground turkey to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until mostly cooked through.
Stir in diced bell peppers, dried basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for 4-5 minutes until peppers have softened.
Add chopped spinach to the pan and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
While spinach wilts, blend marinara sauce and cottage cheese in a high-speed blender or food processor for 30-45 seconds until completely smooth.
Pour the creamy cottage cheese sauce over the turkey and vegetables. Add drained pasta and 2 tablespoons of reserved pasta water. Toss everything together over low heat for 1-2 minutes until well-coated and warmed through. Add more pasta water if needed to reach the desired consistency.
Top with fresh basil and grated parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

How to Serve Creamy High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta

This dish is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with a simple side salad for extra crunch. Garlic bread also complements the creamy pasta very well. If you’re looking for a more filling meal, consider serving it alongside some roasted vegetables. Fresh basil sprinkled on top adds a lovely touch!

How to Store Creamy High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta

To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze this dish for up to a month. When reheating, it’s best to do so gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to maintain creaminess.

Recipe Tips

Be careful not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
Use a high-speed blender for a smoother sauce.
Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of red pepper flakes.
Add more veggies like zucchini or mushrooms if desired.
For a vegetarian version, substitute ground turkey with lentils or chickpeas.

Variations & Swaps

Swap ground turkey for lean beef or ground chicken for different flavors.
Use whole-grain pasta for added fiber.
For a dairy-free version, try vegan cottage cheese or omit it and use a plant-based sauce.
Mix in other vegetables like broccoli or peas for extra nutrition.
Add some roasted red pepper for a sweet and smoky twist.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the turkey and vegetable mixture in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. This is perfect for meal prepping or busy nights.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Just let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to a month.

How do I reheat the pasta?
For the best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to bring back the creamy consistency.

What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
If you don’t have cottage cheese on hand, you can use ricotta cheese or a vegan cream cheese for similar creaminess.

What if I don’t like spicy food?
You can reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. The dish will still taste delicious without the heat!