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Vodka Sauce with Cottage Cheese

Vodka Sauce with Cottage Cheese

Lily Coleman
If you're looking for a way to add protein to your family's next pasta night, give this vodka sauce with cottage cheese a try.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 ounces thick-sliced bacon strips chopped
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 28 ounces whole plum tomatoes roughly chopped with their juices
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup vodka
  • 16 ounces uncooked short-cut pasta e.g. penne or cavatappi
  • 3/4 cup 4% cottage cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for garnish
  • Minced fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Place bacon in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until slightly rendered, 4-5 minutes. Add onion; cook until tender, 4-5 minutes. Add garlic, red pepper flakes and tomato paste; cook until fragrant, 30-60 seconds. Add tomatoes, salt and vodka. Bring to a low boil; reduce to a simmer. Cook, uncovered, 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water. Drain.
  • Add cottage cheese and 1/4 cup pasta water to a high-powered blender; puree until smooth. Add the sauce to the blender; puree until smooth; transfer back to the skillet.
  • Add the hot cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese to the sauce; toss to coat. Thin the sauce with an additional 1/4 cup pasta water, as desired. To serve, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, as desired.