Protein Pasta Bake: Ground Beef & Cottage Cheese (Print Version)
High-protein Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with ground beef. Enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal packed with flavor and nutrients. 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:
→ Hearty Foundation
01 -
1 tbsp olive oil
02 -
1 lb lean ground beef (93% lean)
03 -
1 medium yellow onion, diced
04 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
05 -
12 oz whole wheat penne pasta
→ Rich Tomato Embrace
06 -
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
07 -
2 tbsp tomato paste
08 -
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
09 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
10 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Creamy Protein Powerhouse & Golden Topping
11 -
2 cups low-fat cottage cheese (2%)
12 -
1 large egg
13 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
14 -
1 1/2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided
15 -
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 and set aside. This initial prep 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 lb lean ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add 1 medium yellow onion, diced, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in 3 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
03 -
Stir in 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (if using) to the beef mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld for your Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef.
04 -
In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups low-fat cottage cheese (2%), 1 large egg, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese. Mix well until thoroughly combined. This creamy mixture is key to the protein boost in your bake.
05 -
In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the cooked penne pasta. Top with half of the meat sauce, then dollop half of the cottage cheese mixture over it. Repeat layers with the remaining pasta, meat sauce, and cottage cheese mixture.
06 -
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown. This completes the cooking of your Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef.
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, making it easier to portion. Garnish with 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, if desired.
# Notes:
01 -
For a vegetarian option, swap the ground beef for cooked lentils or a plant-based ground alternative.
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 -
To add more vegetables, stir in a cup of fresh spinach or finely diced bell peppers to the meat sauce during the last few minutes of simmering.
04 -
Serve this hearty pasta bake with a crisp green salad and some garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
9x13 inch baking dish
04 -
Mixing bowls
05 -
Measuring cups
06 -
Measuring spoons
07 -
Cutting board
08 -
Knife
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 612 kcal
Total Fat: 24 g
Total Carbohydrate: 53 g
Protein: 49 g