Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef (Print Version)
Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef offers a hearty, high-protein meal. Enjoy cheesy pasta, savory beef, and a satisfying bake.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ Savory Beef & Tomato Foundation
01 -
1 tbsp olive oil
02 -
1 lb lean ground beef (90/10)
03 -
1 medium yellow onion, diced
04 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
05 -
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
06 -
2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
07 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
08 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Hearty Pasta Base
09 -
12 oz penne or ziti pasta
→ Creamy Protein Core
10 -
24 oz (3 cups) low-fat cottage cheese
11 -
1 large egg
12 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
13 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
→ Golden Cheesy Topping
14 -
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cook 12 oz penne or ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside. This ensures your pasta bake has the perfect texture.
02 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb lean ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add 1 medium yellow onion, diced, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in 3 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
03 -
Stir in 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes, 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (if using) to the beef mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook gently for 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to meld for your Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef.
04 -
In a medium bowl, combine 24 oz (3 cups) low-fat cottage cheese, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped. Mix until well combined. This creamy core is essential for a delicious Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef.
05 -
In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with about half of the beef and tomato sauce. Spread half of the pasta mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the entire cottage cheese mixture, then layer with the remaining pasta. Finish with the remaining beef and tomato sauce.
06 -
Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through. For the best Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef, ensure a golden-brown top.
07 -
Remove the Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef from the oven. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set. This makes for easier slicing and serving.
# Notes:
01 -
Don't overcook the pasta initially, as it will continue to cook in the oven and you want it to hold its shape.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
03 -
Feel free to swap penne for rigatoni or ziti. For extra veggies, sauté spinach or bell peppers with the onion.
04 -
Serve this hearty bake with a simple side salad and some crusty garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
9x13 inch baking dish
04 -
Mixing bowls
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 616 kcal
Total Fat: 21 g
Total Carbohydrate: 53 g
Protein: 52 g