Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef (Print Version)
High-protein cottage cheese pasta bake features ground beef, creamy sauce, and hearty pasta. A satisfying, easy dinner packed with flavor and nutrients.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Foundation
01 -
1 tbsp olive oil
02 -
1 lb lean ground beef (90/10)
03 -
1 yellow onion, diced
04 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
05 -
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
06 -
12 oz whole wheat penne pasta
→ Creamy Protein Powerhouse
07 -
2 cups 2% cottage cheese
08 -
1/2 cup 2% milk
09 -
1 large egg
10 -
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
11 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Flavor & Freshness Boosters
12 -
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
13 -
1/2 tsp dried basil
14 -
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
15 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
16 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook 12 oz whole wheat penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. This prepares the base for your Creamy Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef.
02 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10) and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain excess fat. Add 1 yellow onion, diced, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
03 -
Stir in 3 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained. Season with 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp dried basil, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional), and salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste. Bring to a simmer.
04 -
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups 2% cottage cheese, 1/2 cup 2% milk, and 1 large egg until well combined. Stir in 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. This creamy blend is key to the "Creamy Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef."
05 -
Add the cooked 12 oz whole wheat penne pasta to the beef and tomato sauce in the skillet, tossing to combine. Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly in the skillet. Dollop half of the cottage cheese mixture over the pasta, then sprinkle with 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers.
06 -
Bake the Creamy Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef, uncovered, for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly around the edges and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
07 -
Remove from oven and let the Creamy Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set. Garnish with 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for a vibrant finish.
# Notes:
01 -
For an extra veggie boost, sauté a diced bell pepper or some spinach 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 -
Feel free to swap whole wheat penne for another short pasta like ziti or rotini. Ground turkey can also be used instead of ground beef.
04 -
Serve this hearty pasta bake with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet
02 -
Large pot
03 -
9x13 inch baking dish
04 -
Mixing bowls
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 585 kcal
Total Fat: 23 g
Total Carbohydrate: 49 g
Protein: 43 g