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Easy Spicy Four Cheese Pasta photo

Spicy Four Cheese Pasta

This Spicy Four Cheese Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish with a kick! Loaded with four delicious cheeses and spices, it's sure to please!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 3/4 pound whole-grain pasta of your choice
  • 1 1/2 cups low-fat cottage cheese
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (2% Fage preferred)
  • 2 cups part-skim mozzarella grated, divided
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 2 cups baby spinach loosely packed
  • 1 tablespoon butter or coconut oil
  • 1 small yellow onion chopped
  • 2 tablespoons garlic minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 14 1/2 ounces fire-roasted tomatoes (canned)
  • 8 ounces tomato sauce (canned)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 6 tablespoons Parmesan or Romano cheese grated
  • Several grinds black pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Skillet for sautéing ingredients
  • Baking dish for assembling the pasta
  • Mixing bowls for combining cheeses
  • Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring

Method
 

  1. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the 3/4 pound of whole-grain pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the tablespoon of butter or coconut oil. Add the chopped yellow onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the low-fat cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, Greek yogurt, and 1 cup of grated mozzarella. Add the chopped parsley and stir until well combined.
  4. To the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic, add the fire-roasted tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the dried oregano, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
  5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat. Fold in the baby spinach and cheese mixture, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
  6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, topping it with the remaining cup of mozzarella and the grated Parmesan or Romano cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  7. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with additional parsley if desired and serve hot. Enjoy your Spicy Four Cheese Pasta with a side salad or some crusty bread.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months for longer storage.
  • Adjust cooking time if using gluten-free pasta.