Cottage Cheese Ground Beef Protein Pasta Bake (Print Version)
High-protein cottage cheese pasta bake features savory ground beef, hearty pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. A satisfying, easy weeknight dinner.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ Savory Beef & Aromatic Foundation
01 -
1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef (90/10)
02 -
1 large yellow onion, diced
03 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
1 tbsp olive oil
05 -
1 tsp Italian seasoning
06 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Hearty Pasta & Tomato Embrace
07 -
12 oz penne or ziti pasta
08 -
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
09 -
1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
10 -
1/2 cup beef broth
11 -
1/2 tsp granulated sugar
→ Creamy Protein Powerhouse Topping
12 -
24 oz low-fat cottage cheese
13 -
1 large egg
14 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
15 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
→ Golden Finish & Freshness
16 -
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
17 -
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook 12 oz penne or ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. This initial step sets the stage for your delicious Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef.
02 -
In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1.5 lbs lean ground beef (90/10) and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in 1 large yellow onion, diced, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add 4 cloves garlic, minced, and 1 tsp Italian seasoning; cook for 1 minute more. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
03 -
To the beef mixture, add 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes, 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste, 1/2 cup beef broth, and 1/2 tsp granulated sugar. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld for your Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef.
04 -
In a medium bowl, combine 24 oz low-fat cottage cheese, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped. Mix thoroughly until well combined. This creamy, protein-rich topping is key to the unique texture of this Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef.
05 -
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef and tomato sauce. Spread half of this pasta mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Evenly spread the entire cottage cheese mixture over the pasta. Top with the remaining pasta mixture, then sprinkle with 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
06 -
Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. The Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef should be heated through.
07 -
Remove the Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set. Garnish with 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, for a burst of fresh flavor.
# Notes:
01 -
Substitution Tip: For an extra veggie boost, sauté diced bell peppers or mushrooms with the onion. You can also swap penne for another short pasta like rigatoni or cavatappi.
02 -
Storage Advice: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
03 -
Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the entire bake up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time if baking from cold.
04 -
Serving Suggestion: Serve this hearty pasta bake with a simple green salad and some crusty garlic bread to complete a satisfying meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet
02 -
Large pot
03 -
9x13 inch baking dish
04 -
Mixing bowls
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
06 -
Cutting board
07 -
Knife
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 787 kcal
Total Fat: 31 g
Total Carbohydrate: 59 g
Protein: 62 g