This post may contain affiliate links.Read my disclosure policy.This creamy, Cottage Cheese Cacio e Pepe is a protein-packed twist on the Italian classic.

No cream needed—just blend cottage cheese, black pepper, Parmesan, and starchy pasta water to make a luscious sauce.Ready in under 20 minutes! Creamy Cacio e Pepe If you love traditional cacio e pepe pasta but wish it had a little more staying power, this Cottage Cheese Cacio e Pepe is the answer.It has all the bold, peppery flavor you expect, but with a creamy sauce made from blended cottage cheese that adds a protein boost—16 grams per serving! You can always amp it up by tossing in grilled chicken or grilled shrimp.

And if you’re looking more ways to sneak cottage cheese into your meals, check out more of my Cottage Cheese Recipes here! Why This Recipe WorksI tested creamy cacio e pepe on my husband Tommy, who’s always a little skeptical when I sneak cottage cheese into recipes.But he loved it and even gave it the “picky husband” seal of approval.If that’s not a win, I don’t know what is! Cottage cheese makes it creamy without cream.

Blending it gives you a rich, velvety sauce that feels indulgent but is actually lighter and packed with protein.Pasta water is the secret weapon.It loosens the sauce and helps it cling to every strand of pasta for that classic glossy finish.

It’s fast and pantry-friendly.No need

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