This Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta Bake is creamy and comforting. It combines pasta, rich sauce, and cottage cheese for a tasty twist. Easy to make, it’s perfect for dinner!
I love how this dish feels like a cozy hug on a plate. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some extra protein. Can’t wait for those cheesy leftovers! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Penne or rigatoni works best for this bake as they hold onto the sauce nicely. You can easily swap it for fusilli or rotini if you prefer. Just keep the cooking time in mind!
Cottage Cheese: I like using small curd cottage cheese for its smooth texture. If you want a lower-fat option, low-fat cottage cheese can work too. For a dairy-free version, try blended tofu or a vegan ricotta.
Alfredo Sauce: Store-bought saves time, but homemade gives a fresher taste. If you’re short on time, jarred sauces are still delicious! Look for one without additives for the best flavor.
Cheese: Mozzarella and Parmesan create a great cheesy top. You can replace mozzarella with provolone or Monterey Jack for a different flavor. Fresh Parmesan is lovely, but grated will do just fine!
How Do You Prevent a Dry Pasta Bake?
To ensure your pasta bake is creamy and not dry, follow these tips:
- Cook pasta al dente: This means it should still have a slight bite, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use enough sauce: The Alfredo sauce should generously coat the pasta. If you think it looks too dry before baking, add a splash of milk or broth.
- Cover while baking: If you notice it’s browning too quickly, cover the dish with foil for the first 15 minutes, then uncover to brown the top.
With these simple tricks, your bake will be creamy, cheesy, and simply delicious! Enjoy your cooking!
Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Bake:
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups cottage cheese (small curd preferred)
- 1 1/2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes for prep and cooking, plus about 10 minutes to set before serving. It’s a quick and tasty option for a weeknight dinner or a gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, lightly grease a 9×13 inch (or similar) baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. This helps to ensure that nothing sticks!
2. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook until it’s al dente, which takes about 8-10 minutes (or according to package instructions). When done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
3. Mix the Cheesy Goodness:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with cottage cheese, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, oregano, basil, half of the mozzarella, and the Parmesan cheese. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste! Give it a gentle mix until everything is well combined.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Transfer the delicious pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly to make sure every bite has that tasty goodness!
5. Add More Cheese:
Top the pasta with the remaining mozzarella cheese, sprinkling it evenly across the surface. This will give you a beautiful, melty, cheesy crust!
6. Bake It Up:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the cheese to be golden and bubbly—just perfect!
7. Let It Set:
Once out of the oven, let your pasta bake sit for a few minutes. This helps it settle and makes serving easier. Meanwhile, chop up some fresh parsley for garnish!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the pasta bake warm, garnished with the chopped parsley on top. Each forkful should be creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting. Enjoy your delicious creation!
This dish is a wonderful blend of flavors and textures, making it a delightful choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. Happy eating!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great substitute and adds extra fiber. Just keep in mind it may slightly change the texture, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Prepare This Pasta Bake in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta mixture ahead of time! Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Feel free to mix in some cooked vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. You can also stir in some cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein!
