Name: Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce with Roasted Red Peppers and Basil Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb rigatoni pasta, or pasta of your choice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 medium onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 15 oz can diced tomatoes; 16 oz jar roasted red peppers, drained; 3/4 cup cottage cheese (preferably 4% milkfat for creamiest sauce); 2 tablespoons fresh basil, plus extra for serving; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste; Parmesan cheese; Crushed red pepper flakes; Basil leaves

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 50 reviews

If you’re craving something comforting yet light, the Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce with Roasted Red Peppers and Basil Recipe is an absolute game-changer. This sauce bursts with vibrant flavors from roasted red peppers and fresh basil, while the cottage cheese adds a rich creaminess packed with protein. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests with a sauce that tastes indulgent but uses wholesome, simple ingredients you can feel good about. Whether over rigatoni, spaghetti squash, or zoodles, this sauce elevates any pasta dish with its luscious texture and bright, savory notes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A light blue pot filled with bright red tomato sauce mixed with small, soft chunks of tomatoes and bits of onion sits on a white marbled surface. A dark wooden spoon is stirring the sauce, lifting a portion that shows a mix of chunky tomato pieces and translucent onion throughout the thick red liquid. Around the pot on the marble are scattered fresh green basil leaves, adding a fresh touch to the scene. The pot's interior is cream-colored with light orange sauce stains along the sides, highlighting the cooking process. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient plays a vital role in building the sauce’s rich flavor and appealing texture. The combination is straightforward yet impactful, offering a balance of freshness, creaminess, and depth.

Rigatoni pasta or pasta of your choice: Provides the perfect sturdy base to soak up every bit of this creamy sauce.
Olive oil: Adds a smooth richness and helps gently sauté the onions and garlic.
Onion: Offers a sweet, savory foundation when softened.
Garlic cloves: Bring aromatic warmth that complements the roasted peppers.
Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor with a subtle tanginess.
Diced tomatoes: Add freshness and a light acidity that balances the creaminess.
Roasted red peppers: Provide a smoky sweetness that makes the sauce irresistibly flavorful.
Cottage cheese (ideally 4% milkfat): Creates a gorgeously creamy texture with a protein boost.
Fresh basil: Brightens the sauce with an herbal, peppery note.
Italian seasoning: Brings classic Mediterranean warmth and complexity.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste and enhancing all the flavors.
Optional garnishes (Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, basil leaves): Add extra layers of flavor and visual appeal.

How to Make Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce with Roasted Red Peppers and Basil Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

First things first, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cooking your rigatoni or preferred pasta al dente means it will have the perfect bite and texture to hold onto that luscious sauce. Don’t forget to drain and set it aside once done—this step sets the stage for everything that follows.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and almost translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—careful not to burn it! This gentle cooking releases the aromatics that already start building the sauce’s flavor.

Step 3: Build the Base

Stir in the tomato paste and canned diced tomatoes right into the pot. This combination creates a robust, tangy tomato base that anchors the sauce perfectly even before blending everything together.

Step 4: Blend the Sauce

Carefully transfer the tomato mixture to a blender or food processor. Add the roasted red peppers, creamy cottage cheese, fresh basil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Blend everything until smooth and silky. This blending melds flavors while lending that signature creaminess that defines the Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce with Roasted Red Peppers and Basil Recipe.

Step 5: Warm the Sauce and Combine

Return the sauce to your pot and warm it over medium-low heat. Add the cooked pasta and stir until it’s completely coated and heated through. This last few minutes allow the pasta to soak up the sauce’s vibrant taste, marrying every bite.

How to Serve Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce with Roasted Red Peppers and Basil Recipe

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate garnishes! Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an umami boost, crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat, and tear some extra basil leaves for fresh color and aroma. These toppings add layers of flavor and make the dish visually irresistible.

Side Dishes

This sauce pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is also fantastic to mop up any remaining sauce. These sides keep the meal balanced and add both textural contrast and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving this sauce over roasted spaghetti squash or spiralized zucchini noodles. It’s a fantastic low-carb alternative that still lets the sauce shine. You could also dollop some extra cottage cheese on top for creaminess or present small meatballs on the side for extra protein.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover creamy cottage cheese pasta sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled preserves the fresh basil flavor and creamy texture beautifully.

Freezing

You can freeze the sauce for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, but note that the texture might change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to freeze without the pasta and cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve.

Reheating

Reheat the sauce gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it seems too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. Add freshly chopped basil after reheating to revive the bright herbal notes.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese instead?

Yes, but keep in mind that using lower-fat cottage cheese might result in a thinner, less creamy sauce. For the richest texture, 4% milkfat cottage cheese is best.

Is this sauce suitable for kids?

Absolutely! This Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce with Roasted Red Peppers and Basil Recipe is mild, creamy, and packed with protein, making it a wholesome option even for picky eaters.

Can I substitute fresh basil with dried basil?

While fresh basil provides a vibrant and aromatic flavor, dried basil can work in a pinch. Use about one-third the amount of dried basil and add it during the cooking steps rather than blending to develop its flavor better.

How do I get the roasted red peppers if I can’t find a jar?

You can roast red peppers at home by charring them over an open flame or under the broiler until blistered, then peeling off the skin. This homemade method delivers excellent smoky flavor!

Can this sauce be made vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the cottage cheese with a creamy plant-based option like cashew cream or a thick tofu blend. Adjust seasoning to maintain the sauce’s flavor balance.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce with Roasted Red Peppers and Basil Recipe truly transforms a simple pasta dinner into something spectacular. It’s loaded with flavor, protein, and a creamy texture that feels indulgent without any heaviness. I encourage you to give it a try and discover how easy it is to bring fresh, vibrant tastes to your table with ingredients you likely already love. Once you do, this sauce might just become your new favorite go-to for cozy yet nourishing meals.