Pin Tender al dente pasta mingles with rich tomato-beef sauce, fluffy cottage cheese, and bubbling mozzarella, creating a hearty, creamy bake thats golden and irresistible. This high-protein twist on a classic comfort meal offers a satisfying dinner that feels indulgent while staying nutritious.
Pin By combining lean ground beef with a blend of three cheeses, this bake achieves a depth of flavor that usually takes hours to develop. It is a time-efficient way to get a balanced meal on the table that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces (340 g) penne or rigatoni
- 1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef (85% lean or higher)
- 1 cup (8 ounces) low-fat cottage cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons)
- 1 can (14 ounces/400 g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces/170 g) tomato paste
- ½ cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with cooking spray or oil.
- Step 2
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just al dente, about 1–2 minutes less than package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent, 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4
- Add ground beef, breaking it into small pieces. Cook until browned and no longer pink, 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.
- Step 5
- Stir in tomato paste to coat the beef. Add crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Mix in oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer on low for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 6
- In a large bowl, combine drained pasta, beef-tomato sauce, cottage cheese, Parmesan, and half (½ cup) of the mozzarella. Toss gently until evenly mixed.
- Step 7
- Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella over the top.
- Step 8
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden at the edges.
- Step 9
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best results, cook the pasta slightly under the package directions, as it will continue to cook and absorb moisture while baking in the oven. For a smoother texture, you can blend the cottage cheese in a food processor before mixing it with the pasta and sauce.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish. For added nutrition, stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach or diced bell peppers when simmering the sauce, or use gluten-free pasta if you have a gluten sensitivity.
Serviervorschläge
This hearty bake pairs beautifully with a simple side of steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days and are easily reheated for a quick lunch.
Pin Whether you are feeding a busy family or prepping your meals for the week, this Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake is a reliable and delicious choice. Enjoy the perfect balance of savory beef, tangy tomato, and creamy cheese in every bite.
Recipe FAQ
- → What's the best way to ensure the ground beef is flavorful?
Ensure the ground beef is thoroughly browned and any excess fat is drained before adding other ingredients. Sautéing the onion and garlic first also builds a strong flavor base for the meat sauce, enhancing the overall depth.
- → Can I substitute the cottage cheese in this dish?
While cottage cheese adds a unique creamy texture and protein, you could use ricotta cheese for a similar richness, though the protein content might vary. For a drier, firmer texture, some might opt for cream cheese, but it will change the overall profile of the bake.
- → How do I know when the pasta bake is perfectly cooked?
The dish is ready when the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and beautifully golden brown at the edges. The internal mixture should also be heated through and simmering gently. A brief rest after baking helps the components set, making it easier to serve.
- → Can this be assembled ahead of time?
Yes, you can fully assemble the unbaked casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to cook, allow it to come closer to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for thorough heating.
- → What are some good additions to enhance the vegetables?
You can easily fold in about 2 cups of fresh spinach or diced bell peppers when combining the pasta and sauce mixture. Sautéing the peppers with the onion and garlic, or wilting the spinach into the warm sauce, works wonderfully for adding extra nutrition and flavor.