This Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta Bake is a cozy dish that’s creamy and cheesy! It combines pasta with rich Alfredo sauce and cottage cheese for a tasty twist.
It’s super easy to make, and I love how the cottage cheese gives it a nice texture. Honestly, who can say no to a warm, cheesy bake? Perfect for family dinners! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This is the classic pasta choice for a bake like this. If penne is not available, you could use rotini or ziti. They all hold on to the sauce well, making the dish hearty.
Cottage Cheese: I recommend small curd cottage cheese for its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a dairy substitute, ricotta cheese works perfectly too, providing a similar creamy quality.
Cheese: Mozzarella is great for melting, while Parmesan adds that sharp flavor. If you want a little extra kick, try adding fontina or provolone. For a dairy-free version, use vegan cheese alternatives that melt well.
Alfredo Sauce: Store-bought sauces are easy, but homemade can take this dish up a notch. If you’re short on time, any creamy white sauce could work. For a lighter version, opt for a cauliflower-based Alfredo.
Mushrooms or Chicken: These add protein. Feel free to swap in any cooked protein, like turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Sauté sufficient mushrooms to maintain flavor and texture.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly for a Bake?
Cooking pasta is a crucial step! You don’t want mushy pasta in your bake. Here’s how to do it right:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil—this helps flavor the pasta.
- Cook the penne until it’s al dente, which means it still has a slight bite. Usually, this is 1-2 minutes less than package instructions.
- Drain the pasta, but do not rinse it. This helps the sauce stick to it when mixed.
- If you plan to prepare the bake later, toss the drained pasta with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Bake:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 2 cups cottage cheese (small curd)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 3 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 cup cooked mushrooms or chicken for added protein
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta Bake takes about 15 minutes of prep time and approximately 25 minutes in the oven. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, simple, and wonderfully cheesy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by turning your oven on to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when your bake is ready to go in.
2. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a little firmness. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Grab a medium skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Then, add the chopped onion and cook it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it smells fantastic. If you’re using mushrooms or chicken, toss those in now and cook them through as well. Once everything is nice and fragrant, remove it from the heat.
4. Mix the Cheesy Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, 1 ½ cups of the mozzarella cheese, ½ cup of the Parmesan cheese, the sautéed onion mixture, Alfredo sauce, salt, and black pepper. Stir it all together until everything is well mixed.
5. Combine with the Pasta:
Add the cooked penne pasta to your cheesy mixture and gently stir to coat all the pasta evenly with that creamy goodness.
6. Prepare to Bake:
Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch (or a similar size) baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top for that golden, cheesy finish.
7. Bake the Dish:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it and when the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned, it’s time to take it out!
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once you pull the pasta bake from the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes. This helps it set up a bit. Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta Bake with a smile!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is the traditional choice, you can substitute with rotini, ziti, or even shell pasta. Just ensure whatever pasta you choose can hold the creamy sauce well.
Can I Make It Vegetarian?
Yes! This dish is easily made vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even your favorite vegetables. You can also increase the cheese for added flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or in the microwave until heated through.
What’s the Best Way to Thaw Frozen Leftovers?
If you’ve frozen the pasta bake, the best way to thaw it is to place it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can thaw it in the microwave using the defrost setting. Then, reheat as mentioned above!
