Name: Tomato Cottage Cheese Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound short-cut pasta, such as fusilli or penne; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes; 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 6 reviews

I absolutely love sharing this Tomato Cottage Cheese Pasta Recipe with friends because it’s such a perfect blend of creamy and tangy flavors with a wholesome, comforting vibe. The cottage cheese adds this incredible richness that elevates the tomato sauce to something truly special, yet it’s so simple to prepare. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or want a nourishing meal that feels a little indulgent, this dish really hits the spot every time I make it.

Why You’ll Love This Tomato Cottage Cheese Pasta Recipe

What I find so delightful about this Tomato Cottage Cheese Pasta Recipe is the way the flavors come together—fresh and vibrant from the tomatoes, creamy and mild from the cottage cheese, with those subtle hints of garlic and basil sneaking in. It’s a comforting dish without feeling heavy or greasy, which is a rare find for pasta meals. The parmesan and a touch of pasta water help create the perfect silky sauce that clings beautifully to every nook and cranny of the pasta.

Another huge plus for me is how straightforward it is to make. I don’t have to fuss over complicated steps or rare ingredients; everything is simple and quickly done in under 30 minutes. It’s one of those recipes that’s ideal for hungry weeknights when I want something tasty but don’t want to spend forever in the kitchen. Plus, it’s perfect for nearly any occasion, whether I’m cooking for family or enjoying a solo meal, making it a versatile favorite that always impresses.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows seven cooking ingredients placed on a white marbled surface. At the top right, a white bowl holds dry, yellow spiral pasta. To its left, a gray bowl is filled with white, soft cottage cheese with a lumpy texture. Below the pasta, a small white bowl contains red diced tomatoes in a sauce. To its right, a small white plate has finely grated light cream cheese. At the bottom right, a tiny white bowl holds dried green herbs. In the center bottom, a whole yellow onion with light brown skin rests on the surface. On the left side, a small wooden bowl is filled with fresh, bright green basil leaves, and two peeled garlic cloves lie beside the bowl with tomatoes. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient brings its own magic to the dish. Each item is easy to find, and together, they balance flavor, texture, and color so effortlessly.

1 pound short-cut pasta (fusilli or penne): This shape holds the sauce wonderfully, so every bite is full of flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps soften the onions nicely.
1 onion, diced: Provides a natural sweetness that gently mellows as it cooks.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings that indispensable aromatic punch that makes the sauce pop.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a subtle herbaceous note boosting the tomato flavor.
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes: The fresh tomato base for this creamy sauce.
1 cup cottage cheese: The secret to creaminess and protein power without heavy cream.
1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Enhances depth and adds a savory, umami finish.
Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
Black pepper: A little kick that balances the creaminess and sweetness.

Directions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil, then add your choice of short-cut pasta, like fusilli or penne. Reduce the heat to a very gentle simmer and cook it until al dente or according to the package instructions. Don’t forget to scoop out one cup of the pasta cooking water before draining—the starchy water will help loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 to 6 minutes until it becomes tender and translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and dried basil, cooking for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the kitchen is fragrant.

Step 3: Transfer the cooked onion and garlic mixture to a blender or food processor. Add the canned diced tomatoes, cottage cheese, and parmesan cheese. Blend until completely smooth. Give the sauce a taste, then season with salt and black pepper as needed to get it just right.

Step 4: Return the drained pasta to its pot and pour the creamy tomato cottage cheese sauce on top. Stir gently to combine everything evenly. If the sauce feels a bit thick, add splashes of the reserved pasta water gradually until you reach the perfect consistency that coats the pasta beautifully.

Step 5: Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with freshly chopped basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of parmesan cheese if you’re feeling extra indulgent. The aroma alone is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This Tomato Cottage Cheese Pasta Recipe makes about 6 generous servings, perfect for a family dinner or for meal prepping lunches for the week. Prep time is around 10 minutes, and cook time is about 15 minutes, making the total time just 25 minutes from start to finish. There’s no resting time needed, so you can dive right in as soon as it’s ready.

How to Serve This Tomato Cottage Cheese Pasta Recipe

The image shows a large white pot filled with spiraled rotini pasta coated evenly in a smooth, creamy orange sauce. Scattered small green basil leaves add a touch of fresh color, while light sprinkles of grated white cheese are spread over the pasta, giving texture and contrast. The pot sits on a white marbled surface, with a few sides of leafy green ingredients and a small white bowl with red pepper flakes visible nearby. The scene is bright and focused up close on the pasta, showing the sauce clinging to each twist in the spirals. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When I’m serving this pasta, I like to keep things fresh and simple to complement the creamy sauce. A crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness. Roasted vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers also add a wonderful textural contrast and color to the plate.

For garnish, I love scattering freshly chopped basil leaves right on top; it adds a burst of herbiness and a pop of vibrant green that makes the dish feel extra special. Some extra freshly grated parmesan cheese sprinkled over the top really never goes amiss, especially if you’re sharing this at a dinner party or family gathering.

Wine lovers will appreciate this pasta alongside a chilled glass of crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, which balance the tomato’s acidity. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon is incredibly refreshing. I usually serve this pasta warm, right off the stove, to fully enjoy the creamy sauce’s luscious texture and uplifting flavors.

Variations

One of the things I enjoy most about this Tomato Cottage Cheese Pasta Recipe is how easy it is to customize. For instance, swapping the short-cut pasta for gluten-free alternatives works brilliantly if you need to avoid gluten while keeping all the flavors intact. For a vegan twist, I’ve experimented using vegan parmesan and silken tofu instead of cottage cheese—though it shifts the flavor, it’s still deliciously creamy.

If you want a bit more depth, adding a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes can give the sauce an exciting smoky or spicy undertone. On the other hand, for a heartier version, stirring in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach just before blending adds extra texture and nutrition that I love.

For cooking methods, I sometimes prepare the sauce without blending for a chunkier texture by simply cooking down fresh tomatoes with the onion and garlic, and then folding in cottage cheese at the end off heat. It’s a lovely variation when I want a rustic feel but still want that creamy element.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

I store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated. This recipe holds well for up to 5 days, making it a great option to cook once and enjoy multiple meals. Using a container that seals tightly helps preserve the flavors and textures without letting the sauce dry out or absorb other fridge odors.

Freezing

This pasta can surprisingly be frozen if you want to save portions for longer. I recommend freezing it in freezer-safe, airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing. It keeps well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

When reheating, I prefer warming the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to revive the creamy sauce texture. Adding a splash of water or broth helps loosen the sauce as it heats. While the microwave is convenient, it tends to dry the sauce out quickly, so keep a close eye and stir midway. Avoid overheating to keep the cottage cheese from separating and the sauce from becoming grainy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes?

Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes can be used, but I recommend blanching and peeling them first to remove the skins for a smoother sauce. You may also need to cook them down a bit longer to achieve the right consistency that canned tomatoes usually provide.

Is cottage cheese a good substitute for ricotta in this recipe?

Yes, cottage cheese works wonderfully here because it offers a slightly tangier flavor and a creamier texture than ricotta. If you prefer ricotta, it’s fine to substitute it, but the nutritional profile and creaminess might change slightly.

Can I add meat or protein to this Tomato Cottage Cheese Pasta Recipe?

Definitely! Adding cooked chicken breast, turkey sausage, or even crispy bacon pairs nicely with the creamy tomato sauce for those who want a non-vegetarian version. Just cook the protein separately and toss it in with the pasta at the end.

How can I make this recipe more kid-friendly?

To make it appealing for kids, I usually keep the flavors mild and omit any spicy additions. You can let kids add their own parmesan cheese on top, which they often enjoy. Pairing the pasta with some steamed veggies that they like or a simple fruit salad helps round out the meal.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, the sauce blends up quickly and keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can make it ahead and just warm it through when you’re ready to toss with freshly cooked pasta. This can really speed up dinner on busy days.

Conclusion

Trust me when I say this Tomato Cottage Cheese Pasta Recipe will quickly become one of your go-tos for satisfying, cozy meals. It strikes the perfect balance between creamy and fresh, with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Give it a try—I’m confident you’ll love how effortless and delicious it is. Nothing beats a home-cooked pasta with a creamy tomato sauce that feels both hearty and light. Bon appétit!