Save to Pinterest 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 American/Italian-inspired dish is a high-protein dinner solution that brings comfort to the table in just over an hour.
Save to Pinterest The combination of savory lean ground beef and a blend of three cheeses creates a multi-layered flavor profile. This bake is designed to be both nutritious and satisfying, proving that high-protein meals can be just as delicious as traditional comfort food.
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
For the best results, ensure the pasta is cooked al dente before baking so it retains its texture. Be sure to drain the excess fat from the beef after browning to prevent the sauce from becoming too oily.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this bake. To add more vegetables, stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach or diced bell peppers, or use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary sensitivities.
Serviervorschläge
Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the flavors to settle. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves and serve alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Save to Pinterest This Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake is a reliable and delicious way to meet your protein goals while enjoying a classic family favorite. With its bubbling cheese and rich beef sauce, it is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → What kind of pasta works best for this dish?
While penne or rigatoni are recommended for their ability to hold the sauce well, you can use any short, sturdy pasta shape you prefer, such as ziti or cavatappi.
- → Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Absolutely! For a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef. Adjust seasoning as needed for flavor.
- → How can I add more vegetables to this meal?
You can easily enhance the nutritional content by stirring in 2 cups of fresh spinach or diced bell peppers when simmering the meat sauce.
- → Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire dish in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed just before you plan to serve it.
- → What are the storage instructions for leftovers?
Store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, covered, until warmed through.
- → Is this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivity?
To make this meal gluten-free, simply substitute the regular pasta with a gluten-free pasta variety of your choice. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.