When you think of Alfredo sauce, you might picture a decadent, heavy dish reserved for special occasions. But what if I told you there’s a way to enjoy that creamy, cheesy goodness in a lighter, healthier version? Creamy Cottage Cheese Alfredo is here to change the game. It’s an easy, delicious dinner that brings together comfort and nutrition, making it perfect for any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Cottage Cheese Alfredo

• Healthier Alternative: By using cottage cheese and low-fat milk, you get the creamy texture without the heavy cream.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights.
• Packed with Protein: Cottage cheese adds a protein boost, making this meal more satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the cheesy, comforting flavor.
• Customizable: Add vegetables, protein, or spices to make it your own.

Ingredients for Creamy Cottage Cheese Alfredo

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious and nutritious dish:

Ingredient	Amount
Kosher salt	To taste
Dry fettuccine	8 oz.
Extra-virgin olive oil	1 Tbsp.
Low-fat cottage cheese	1 1/4 cups
2% milk	1 cup
Parmesan (shredded)	1 oz. (about 1/3 cup packed)
Garlic (finely chopped)	2 small cloves
Unsalted butter (softened)	3 Tbsp.
All-purpose flour	1 Tbsp.
Baby spinach	3 oz.
Crushed red pepper flakes	For garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the fettuccine and cook, stirring occasionally, until very al dente (about 1 minute less than the package instructions).
3. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and transfer it to a large bowl.
4. Toss the cooked pasta with olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, milk, Parmesan, garlic, butter, flour, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
2. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Transfer the sauce to a large skillet and bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Cook the sauce, stirring frequently with a heatproof spatula, until it thickens (about 8-10 minutes).
5. Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce.
2. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated.
3. If the sauce becomes too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.

4. Serve and Garnish

1. Divide the pasta among serving bowls.
2. Top each bowl with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy creation!

Tips for Success

• Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: The starch in the reserved water helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly shredded Parmesan and garlic enhance the flavor of the sauce.
• Customize Your Add-Ins: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables for extra protein and flavor.
• Blend Thoroughly: Ensure the cottage cheese mixture is smooth before transferring it to the skillet.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	~350
Protein	18g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fats	12g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	400mg

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free fettuccine and substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free alternative.

2. What can I use instead of spinach?

You can swap spinach for kale, arugula, or your favorite leafy green.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to refresh the sauce.

4. Can I use full-fat cottage cheese?

Absolutely! Full-fat cottage cheese will make the sauce even creamier.

5. What other pasta shapes work with this sauce?

While fettuccine is traditional, you can use linguine, penne, or even zoodles for a low-carb option.

6. Can I freeze the sauce?

Yes, you can freeze the sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Conclusion: Make Creamy Cottage Cheese Alfredo Tonight!

Creamy Cottage Cheese Alfredo is a healthy, satisfying twist on a classic comfort food. With its rich, cheesy flavor and quick preparation time, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish is sure to impress.

Ready to bring a little comfort to your table? Grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the creamy, dreamy taste of this healthy Alfredo tonight!

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