Name: Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce 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· 4.3 from 71 reviews

If you’re searching for a delightful pasta sauce that’s both nourishing and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce Recipe. It combines the tangy creaminess of cottage cheese with the vibrant sweetness of roasted red peppers and tomatoes, creating a protein-packed sauce that clings beautifully to every bite of your favorite pasta. Whether you’re aiming for a comforting weeknight dinner or something special to impress friends and family, this sauce is a versatile superstar you’ll want in your cooking rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of a light blue enamel pot with light beige inside, filled with a chunky red tomato sauce. The sauce has visible small and medium pieces of tomatoes, onions, and some garlic, all mixed in a thick red liquid base. A wooden spoon with a dark brown head is inside the pot, scooping some sauce showing the mix of the tomato pieces and onions clearly. The pot sits on a white marbled surface, scattered with several fresh green basil leaves around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple, fresh ingredients are the secret to making an irresistible sauce. Each one adds its own magic to the creamy texture, rich taste, or vibrant color, working harmoniously to create a pasta sauce you’ll crave again and again.

1 lb rigatoni pasta, or pasta of your choice: Sturdy enough to hold the sauce, but feel free to pick your favorite shapes.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps soften the aromatics.
1/2 medium onion, chopped: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth once sautéed.
4 cloves garlic minced: A punch of flavor that’s essential to any great Italian sauce.
1 tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and adds a lovely red hue.
15 oz can diced tomatoes: Provides freshness and a juicy texture to the sauce.
16 oz jar roasted red peppers, drained: Infuses a smoky sweetness and vibrant color.
3/4 cup cottage cheese*: The star of the show, lending creaminess along with a boost of protein.
2 tablespoons fresh basil, plus extra for serving: Bright green and aromatic, basil enhances freshness and complexity.
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that ties the flavors together with classic warmth.
Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring balance to every component.
For serving: Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, basil leaves: Optional finishes that add salty, spicy, and herbal notes.

How to Make Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a steady boil. Cook your rigatoni or preferred pasta until al dente, meaning it has that gentle bite without being too soft. Drain it well and put it aside while the sauce comes together.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot. Toss in the chopped onion and let it cook gently until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and give it one minute to release its savory aroma without browning — that’s the key to building layers of flavor.

Step 3: Build the Tomato Base

Stir in your tomato paste right within the pot, letting it cook briefly to deepen its flavor. Pour in the diced tomatoes next, stirring to combine everything into a rich and chunky sauce base.

Step 4: Blend the Sauce

Carefully transfer the tomato mixture to a blender or food processor along with the jarred roasted red peppers, creamy cottage cheese, fresh basil, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Blend everything together until you achieve a smooth, luscious sauce that’s silky yet packed with vibrant flavor.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Pour the creamy sauce back into your pot and warm it over medium-low heat. Add the cooked pasta and gently toss it all together, ensuring every piece gets thoroughly coated. Give it a taste and add extra salt or pepper if you feel it needs a bit more seasoning.

How to Serve Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce Recipe

The image shows a white pot filled with rigatoni pasta coated in a smooth red-orange tomato sauce. The pasta pieces are short tube-shaped with ridges, layered evenly in the pot. On top, there are thin, uneven shavings of pale white cheese scattered around, and bright green fresh basil leaves both whole and sliced finely, adding contrast. A wooden spoon is partially visible stirring the pasta on the right side. The pot sits on a white marbled surface with a small white dish of red pepper flakes in the background and a blue striped cloth on the left side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate this dish, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top. If you like a little heat, crushed red pepper flakes add a lively kick. A handful of extra basil leaves brings in that fresh herbal note that makes every bite sing.

Side Dishes

This pasta sauce shines alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. For a heartier meal, pair it with garlic bread to soak up every bit of that creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the sauce over roasted spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles for a lighter, veggie-packed version. You can also spoon the sauce over grilled chicken or meatballs, turning it into a comforting protein-packed plate that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the pasta separate if possible to maintain the best texture.

Freezing

This sauce freezes wonderfully! Portion it into freezer-friendly containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking. You can add a splash of water or broth if the sauce feels too thick after storage.

FAQs

Can I use non-fat cottage cheese for this sauce?

While you can, using 4% milkfat cottage cheese will yield a creamier and more indulgent texture. Non-fat versions tend to result in a thinner sauce.

Is this sauce suitable for kids?

Absolutely! It’s packed with protein and gentle flavors that both kids and adults love. You can adjust the garlic or spice levels to suit younger palates.

Can I substitute fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, fresh tomatoes can work if they’re ripe and juicy. You might need to cook them a bit longer to break them down, ensuring a smooth sauce.

What pasta shapes work best with this sauce?

Heavier shapes like rigatoni or penne are fantastic because the sauce clings to their ridges and tubes, but feel free to use any pasta you enjoy.

Can I add extra veggies to the sauce?

Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, or even finely chopped zucchini can be sautéed with the onions for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce Recipe, it’s going to become one of your go-to dishes for both busy weeknights and special gatherings. It’s flavorful, comforting, and packed with wholesome ingredients that make everyone at the table happy. Give it a try and watch this sauce become a beloved staple in your kitchen!