Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Stovetop · Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Quick Answer
A creamy and protein-packed Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Pasta that brings the flavors of fall to your table.
As we drift into the cozy vibes of fall in New York City, the streets are adorned with shades of pumpkin spice, and the market stalls brim with autumnal bounty. This season, I couldn't resist bringing the warmth of the holidays straight into my kitchen with a delicious twist on traditional comfort food. Enter my Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Pasta-a delightful fusion of creamy textures and bold flavors that's perfect for cozy dinners or as a unique Thanksgiving side dish.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Let's dive into this hearty recipe that's not only a feast for the taste buds but also packed with protein!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Packed with protein from cottage cheese, making it a satisfying meal option.
- Warm, creamy, and comforting-perfect for chilly fall evenings.
- A unique twist on traditional pasta dishes, ideal for Thanksgiving sides.
- Simple ingredients that celebrate the flavors of autumn.
- Easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time for convenience.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Pasta.
Pasta
- 12 ounces of pasta (cavatappi or fusilli recommended)
Cheese and Pumpkin Mixture
- 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree
- 1 cup of cottage cheese (whole milk preferred)
- 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- A sprinkle of fresh sage or parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Pasta (Step-by-Step)
This creamy Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Pasta is easy to prepare and a delight to savor. Follow these steps for a delicious meal.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but be sure to reserve about a cup of the pasta water for later use.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, cottage cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Use a fork to mix the ingredients until well blended and creamy. The aroma of nutmeg paired with pumpkin will fill your kitchen, adding warmth to your cooking experience.
Step 3: Combine
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked pasta, then pour in the pumpkin-cottage cheese mixture. Stir gently until the pasta is thoroughly coated with the creamy sauce. If the mixture appears too thick, slowly add a splash of the reserved pasta water until the desired creaminess is achieved.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and continue stirring until it melts into the pasta. This will create a wonderfully rich and luxurious texture that is both comforting and satisfying.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with fresh sage or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your cozy pumpkin dish!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using the Wrong Pumpkin: Make sure to use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
- Not Reserving Pasta Water: Always reserve some pasta cooking water! It's a magical ingredient that helps achieve the desired creaminess in your dish.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta to al dente ensures it retains a nice bite and helps it hold up better in the creamy sauce.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Feel free to swap out the cheeses based on your preferences-adding mozzarella for a gooey texture can be a delightful twist.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider sautéing some diced onions or garlic in the olive oil before mixing in the pasta.
- This dish can be made ahead of time; simply reheat on low over the stove and add a splash of water if it thickens too much.
Variations
- Use different pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni for a new texture.
- Incorporate spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
- Replace sharp cheddar with gruyere or feta for a different flavor profile.
- Add cooked sausage or turkey for extra protein.
- Top with crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
How to Serve
- Garnish with fresh sage or parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve alongside a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Offer additional grated cheese on the side for cheese lovers.
- Present in individual bowls for a cozy, restaurant-style dining experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared a few hours in advance. Cook the pasta and prepare the cheese mixture, then combine just before serving.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of water or milk if it thickens too much.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the cottage cheese may change upon thawing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Through my trials with this recipe, I discovered that the combination of pumpkin and cottage cheese achieves an incredible creaminess that feels indulgent but is surprisingly healthy. Plus, it feels like a warm embrace, making it perfect for the upcoming festive gatherings!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 18g protein · 45g carbs · 12g fat
Recipe by:
Creamy Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and reserve about a cup of the pasta water for later use.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, cottage cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended and creamy.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked pasta, then pour in the pumpkin-cottage cheese mixture. Stir gently until the pasta is thoroughly coated with the sauce. If too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and continue stirring until it melts into the pasta.
- Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with fresh sage or parsley.
Notes
FAQs
What type of pasta works best for Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Pasta?
I recommend using cavatappi or fusilli pasta for their nooks and crannies, which help hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this dish ahead of time. Just reheat it on low over the stove and add a splash of water or milk to restore its creaminess.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or milk if necessary.
