Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake

This cottage cheese protein pasta bake with ground beef is a satisfying weeknight meal that combines hearty flavors with a good dose of protein. It’s a balanced dish that feels indulgent without being heavy, perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week ahead.

I first made this after realizing my kids needed more protein in a comforting dish. It quickly became a favorite because it’s creamy without being overloaded with heavy cream or cheese.

Ingredients

• Whole wheat penne pasta: helps add fiber and texture, choose a brand you trust to avoid mushiness
• Lean ground beef: keeps the protein content high while limiting fat for a cleaner bake
• Medium onion: for sweetness and aroma, fresh and firm onions offer the best flavor boost
• Garlic cloves: add depth, always opt for fresh garlic as pre-minced often lacks punch
• Italian seasoning: brings classic Italian herbs together, check the blend for freshness
• Salt and black pepper: to season, balance these carefully to enhance without overpowering
• Cottage cheese: is the key protein-packed ingredient, full-fat makes the bake creamier but use what you prefer
• Plain Greek yogurt: adds tang and richness, pick a thick strained version for better texture
• Marinara sauce: ties everything with bright tomato flavor, fresh jarred or homemade both work well
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: for melty, stretchy tops, fresh shredded is ideal over pre-shredded
• Grated Parmesan cheese: adds a salty, nutty finish, fresh grated Parmesan always outshines powdery varieties
• Fresh parsley: for garnish lends a fresh pop of color and herbaceous note

Instructions

Bring The Pasta To Life:

Cook the whole wheat penne pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until just shy of al dente by one or two minutes. Drain the pasta thoroughly reserving half a cup of pasta water. This prevents mushiness and allows for moisture adjustments later.

Brown The Beef Mixture:

While pasta cooks heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the lean ground beef along with diced onion and minced garlic. Brown the mixture thoroughly ensuring the beef reaches 165°F internal temperature. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for a warm, aromatic base.

Creamy Cheese Blend:

In a separate bowl combine cottage cheese and Greek yogurt stirring until smooth and creamy. This mixture adds moisture and protein and helps bind the ingredients when baked.

Assemble The Layers:

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spread the cooked pasta evenly in a large baking dish layer the seasoned beef mixture on top followed by an even layer of marinara sauce. Mix gently to avoid squashing the pasta but get the flavors combined.

Add The Cheese Topping:

Dollop the cottage cheese blend over the assembled layers and spread gently with a spatula. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly covering the top to create a golden melted cheese crust.

Bake To Perfection:

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown around the edges. Allow the bake to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting time helps the pasta set up making it easier to serve and enhances the texture.

One of my favorite ingredients here is the cottage cheese. It adds creaminess and protein without the heaviness of traditional ricotta or cream cheese. This dish always reminds me of chilly evenings when I needed something hearty and easy after work but still felt wholesome.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave adding a splash of water or marinara to keep it moist.

Ingredient Swaps

Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter alternative. You can swap whole wheat pasta for gluten free if needed and add different cheeses like Fontina or cheddar for a new flavor twist.

Serving Ideas

Serve with a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or roasted vegetables make great sides for a complete meal.

This bake offers a nutritious comfort food option that’s easy to prepare and enjoy any night of the week.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of pasta works best for this bake?

Whole wheat penne is recommended for its sturdy texture and nutritional benefits, but other short pastas like rigatoni or ziti can also work well.

→ Can I use a different cheese instead of cottage cheese?

While cottage cheese adds creaminess and protein, ricotta or a blend with Greek yogurt can be used as alternatives for a similar texture.

→ How do I ensure the ground beef stays moist?

Cooking the beef with diced onion and garlic and draining excess fat helps; seasoning with Italian herbs also enhances moisture and flavor.

→ Is there a way to add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, diced bell peppers or zucchini can be sautéed with the beef mixture before layering to add nutrients and color.

→ How can I adjust the sauce consistency if the bake is too dry?

Reserve some pasta cooking water and add a little when mixing for a moister texture, or increase the marinara sauce volume slightly.

→ What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep the cheese melty and pasta moist.