High Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta: Creamy, Healthy & Ready in 20 Minutes

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June 15, 2025

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The Story & Introduction

Hi, I’m Emma – the heart behind Sear Recipes. If there’s one dish that completely changed how I think about comfort food, it’s this high protein cottage cheese pasta. Creamy, rich, and surprisingly nourishing, it’s the kind of recipe that feels indulgent but supports your wellness goals.

As a child, pasta nights at my grandmother’s were more than just meals—they were moments of connection. But as I started focusing on eating well and staying energized throughout the day, traditional pasta dishes no longer served my needs. They were delicious, yes—but low in protein and high in empty carbs.

One day, staring into my fridge, I spotted a tub of low-fat cottage cheese and thought, “Why not?” A few tweaks later, I had a creamy sauce packed with flavor, protein, and real comfort. It tasted amazing, kept me full for hours, and was ready in less than 20 minutes.

The secret? Blending cottage cheese with warm pasta water and simple seasonings creates an incredibly smooth sauce without cream. Paired with chickpea or lentil pasta, it becomes a complete, protein-rich meal. Each bowl offers over 30 grams of protein, making it ideal for anyone looking to eat better without giving up their favorite foods.

On Sear Recipes, I aim to bring you meals that are simple, quick, and full of joy. Whether you’re cooking for one, meal prepping for the week, or just want something cozy and nutritious, this high protein cottage cheese pasta is a new staple you’ll come back to again and again.

Hungry for more macro-balanced comfort? You’ll love our High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Recipes and easy One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Served bowl of high protein cottage cheese pasta with basil
Table of Contents

How High Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta Supports Your Health and Fitness Goals

If you’re trying to eat smarter without giving up creamy comfort food, this high protein cottage cheese pasta hits every mark. It’s high in protein, balanced in macros, and made with real ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is its ability to deliver over 30 grams of protein per serving without using meat (unless you choose to). Cottage cheese and protein-rich pasta come together to form a balanced, complete meal. It’s the ideal combo for boosting energy, supporting lean muscle, and promoting healthy weight management.

So why is it effective? Cottage cheese delivers both casein and whey—two premium proteins. Casein releases slowly, keeping you fuller longer, while whey absorbs quickly to support muscle repair. Protein pasta made from chickpeas or lentils adds fiber and slow-digesting carbs for sustained energy.

Research, including findings from Harvard Health, confirms that high-protein meals help curb hunger, maintain lean muscle, and aid in weight control—exactly the kind of benefits this dish was built to deliver.

It’s also flexible. You can make it gluten-free, dairy-light, or load it with veggies and lean meats. Try adding some grilled chicken or roasted broccoli for an even more filling plate.

Need more high-protein ideas? Pair this pasta with our Salmon Loaf Recipe or refresh your dinner plan with the Japanese Mounjaro Recipe—both packed with nutrients and flavor.

This dish delivers on both taste and nutrition—helping you meet your goals without giving up comforting flavor. It’s quick, nourishing, and genuinely enjoyable.

Served bowl of high protein cottage cheese pasta with basil

High Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta: Creamy, Healthy & Ready in 20 Minutes

This high protein cottage cheese pasta is creamy, satisfying, and packed with over 30g of protein per serving. It’s quick to prepare and ideal for balanced, macro-friendly meals.
Print Pin Rate
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Keyword: healthy pasta, high protein cottage cheese pasta, protein pasta
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Calories: 415kcal
Author: EMMA

Ingredients

  • 6 oz protein pasta chickpea, lentil, or edamame pasta
  • 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese optional
  • 2 tbsp reserved pasta water
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • 1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 2 tbsp of pasta water and drain the rest.
  • 2. Blend the cottage cheese, garlic, olive oil, and 1 tbsp pasta water in a blender until smooth. Add more water if needed.
  • 3. Return cooked pasta to pot on low heat. Stir in blended sauce and red pepper flakes. Add Parmesan if using.
  • 4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or lemon zest if desired.

Notes

To make it dairy-free, use plant-based cottage cheese.
Add spinach, broccoli, or grilled chicken for extra protein or fiber.
Pairs well with our Greek Stuffed Grape Leaves or Salmon Loaf Recipe.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowl | Calories: 415kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 34g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 450mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 3g

Ingredients and Preparation for High Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta

Creating a creamy, protein-packed pasta doesn’t require complicated steps or fancy tools. With this high protein cottage cheese pasta, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in under 20 minutes using simple, whole ingredients.

Ingredients for high protein cottage cheese pasta on marble surface

What You’ll Need (Serves 2)

  • 6 oz of protein pasta—choose varieties like chickpea, lentil, or edamame for the best results.
  • 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 2 tbsp reserved pasta water
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (for heat, optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
Blended cottage cheese pasta sauce in a blender

Smart Swaps & Additions

  • Dairy-free option: Use plant-based cottage cheese.
  • Want more protein? Mix in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy tofu for an extra boost.
  • Add greens: Stir in spinach or zucchini before serving.
  • More flavor: Try a spoonful of pesto or fresh basil.

This versatile base also pairs perfectly with our Greek Stuffed Grape Leaves for a high-protein Mediterranean combo.


How to Make It

1. Cook Pasta:
Boil a pot of salted water and cook the protein pasta until it’s just tender. Set aside 2 tablespoons of the cooking water before draining.

2. Blend Sauce:
Combine the cottage cheese, olive oil, garlic, and a tablespoon of pasta water in a blender. Blend until silky. Add more water if needed for the perfect creamy texture.

Protein pasta being stirred in skillet with cottage cheese sauce

3. Combine:
Place the pasta back in the pot on low heat. Pour in your blended sauce, stirring gently for a minute or two. Mix in red pepper flakes and Parmesan, then season to your liking.

4. Serve Immediately:
Garnish with chopped herbs, extra cheese, or lemon zest if desired.

Looking for another creamy protein-packed dish? Our One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is another quick favorite with a satisfying finish.

Variations, FAQs & Nutritional Information for High Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta

One of the best things about this high protein cottage cheese pasta is how customizable it is. Whether you’re dairy-free, gluten-free, or just looking for ways to boost nutrition, this dish adapts effortlessly.

Easy Customizations

  • Add protein: Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu for extra fuel.
  • To make it plant-based, go for dairy-free cottage cheese and leave out the Parmesan.
  • Boost fiber: Swap in edamame or whole wheat pasta, and add spinach or roasted broccoli.
  • Craving heat? Add red pepper flakes, harissa paste, or a drizzle of chili oil to turn up the flavor.

Looking to add more variety to your high-protein dinners? Our Natural Mounjaro Recipe and Salmon Loaf Recipe are both smart, flavor-packed choices.

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FAQs – People Also Ask

What can you add to pasta for more protein?

Grilled chicken, lentils, shrimp, tofu, and cottage cheese are excellent additions. You can also use legume-based pasta or add egg whites to sauces for a hidden boost.

Which pasta is higher in protein?

Chickpea, lentil, and edamame pastas contain 13–20g of protein per serving. They’re naturally gluten-free and packed with fiber.

Is protein pasta good for weight loss?

Yes. High-protein pasta keeps you fuller longer, supports muscle retention, and helps control blood sugar—key factors in weight management according to Cleveland Clinic.

What is the best high protein flour for pasta?

Chickpea flour and lentil flour are top options. They’re rich in protein and create pasta with excellent bite and texture.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 415 kcal
Protein 34 g
Carbohydrates 35 g
Fiber 6 g
Fat 15 g
Saturated Fat 4 g
Sodium 450 mg

Conclusion


This high protein cottage cheese pasta proves that comfort food and clean eating can exist in the same bowl. Creamy, rich, and satisfying, it delivers all the indulgence of a traditional pasta dish—without the nutritional compromises.

Whether you’re tracking macros, aiming for lean muscle, or just want to feel fuller longer, this pasta supports your goals with smart ingredients like cottage cheese and protein pasta. It’s also quick to prepare, adaptable for many diets, and perfect for leftovers.

What I love most about this recipe is how it brings joy back to weeknight meals. It’s not about restriction—it’s about finding flavors that nourish and satisfy. That’s the spirit behind everything I create here on Sear Recipes, and it’s what keeps me excited to share new ideas with you.

If this dish brings warmth and ease to your kitchen like it has to mine, don’t forget to explore more protein-rich creations like our Homemade Mounjaro Recipe or the Marry Me Chicken Pasta—both equally easy and full of flavor.

Thanks for being here. I hope this pasta becomes part of your regular routine, filling your table with nourishment and your evenings with ease.

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