Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake: Easy Weeknight Meal (Print Version)
Protein-packed cottage cheese pasta bake offers a creamy, satisfying meal. Quick to prepare, it's ideal for busy weeknights and family dinners.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian
Dietary: Vegetarian
# Ingredients:
→ Hearty Pasta Foundation
01 -
1 lb whole wheat penne pasta
→ Savory Tomato Embrace
02 -
1 tbsp olive oil
03 -
1 yellow onion, finely diced
04 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
05 -
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
06 -
1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
07 -
2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
08 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
09 -
1/2 tsp salt
10 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
→ Creamy Protein Core
11 -
3 cups 2% cottage cheese
12 -
1 large egg
13 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
14 -
5 oz fresh spinach, roughly chopped
→ Golden Cheesy Crown
15 -
2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook 1 lb whole wheat penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. This is the hearty foundation for your Protein Packed Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake.
02 -
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 yellow onion, finely diced, and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in 4 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
03 -
Add 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes, 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste, 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
04 -
In a large bowl, combine 3 cups 2% cottage cheese, 1 large egg, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 5 oz fresh spinach, roughly chopped. Mix until well combined. This creamy protein core is key to the "Protein Packed" aspect of this Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake.
05 -
Add the cooked whole wheat penne pasta to the tomato sauce and toss to coat. Spread half of the pasta mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the entire cottage cheese and spinach mixture, spreading evenly.
06 -
Spoon the remaining pasta mixture over the cottage cheese layer. Sprinkle evenly with 2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
07 -
Remove the Protein Packed Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set, making for easier and cleaner slices.
# Notes:
01 -
For an extra veggie boost, feel free to add diced bell peppers or zucchini to the tomato sauce along with the onion.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
03 -
Serve this hearty pasta bake with a simple side salad and some crusty garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
04 -
Don't skip the resting time! It's crucial for the layers to set, preventing a messy dish when serving.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
Large mixing bowl
04 -
9x13 inch baking dish
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
06 -
Cutting board
07 -
Chef's knife
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 592 kcal
Total Fat: 16 g
Total Carbohydrate: 73 g
Protein: 42 g