Description
This Cottage Cheese Pasta is a creamy, high-protein meal made with rigatoni, lean chicken mince, and a cottage cheese marinara sauce. Quick, satisfying, and nutritious, it’s a healthy alternative to heavy cream-based pastas—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
3 cups uncooked rigatoni pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 lb chicken mince
2 tsp Italian seasoning
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
½ cup cottage cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish:
Grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil
Instructions
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Cook rigatoni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté onion for 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
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Add chicken mince, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6–8 minutes until fully browned.
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In a blender, combine marinara and cottage cheese. Blend until smooth and creamy.
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Pour sauce into the skillet with chicken. Add cooked pasta and mix well.
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Cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through. Garnish with Parmesan and basil.
Notes
Use tofu or plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
Swap rigatoni for penne, fusilli, or gluten-free pasta.
Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrients.
Bake with cheese on top for a casserole-style finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
