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Quick Cottage Cheese Alfredo with Broccoli Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 55 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Quick Cottage Cheese Alfredo with Broccoli is a creamy, nutritious twist on the classic Alfredo pasta. Featuring full-fat cottage cheese for a rich texture, fresh broccoli florets for vibrant color and added nutrition, and a hint of garlic and nutmeg for depth of flavor, this recipe delivers a wholesome, satisfying meal in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that combines comfort and health with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Pasta & Vegetables

  • 250g pasta
  • 2.5 cups broccoli, cut into florets
  • 1/2 cup pasta water

Sauce & Seasonings

  • 1.5 tbsp olive oil
  • 550g cottage cheese (full-fat for a creamier sauce)
  • 3/4 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced very fine
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp grated nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup parsley, freshly chopped
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.
  2. Steam the broccoli. While the pasta cooks, steam the broccoli florets until tender but still vibrant green, approximately 5 minutes. You can do this in a steamer basket over boiling water or in the microwave with a splash of water.
  3. Prepare the sauce base. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, taking care not to burn the garlic.
  4. Create the Alfredo sauce. Lower the heat and add the full-fat cottage cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously, warming it gently. Add the parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, grated nutmeg, and lemon zest. Stir well to combine and create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is thick, gradually add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired consistency.
  5. Combine pasta and broccoli with sauce. Add the drained pasta and steamed broccoli into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated with the sauce and heated through for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Finish and garnish. Remove from heat and stir in freshly chopped parsley. Sprinkle red pepper flakes if using, to add a subtle kick. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Using full-fat cottage cheese enhances creaminess, but low-fat versions can be substituted for a lighter sauce.
  • Freshly grated parmesan cheese will yield the best flavor, but pre-grated can be used if necessary.
  • You can customize this dish by adding sautéed mushrooms or grilled chicken for extra protein.
  • Reserve pasta water is key for adjusting sauce consistency without thinning the flavor.
  • If you prefer a smoother sauce, pulse the cottage cheese slightly in a blender before adding it to the skillet.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/quick-cottage-cheese-alfredo-with-broccoli-recipe/