High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake with Ground Beef (Print Version)
Enjoy a satisfying high-protein cottage cheese pasta bake. Lean ground beef, pasta, and creamy cottage cheese create a hearty, flavorful meal.
# 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 Beef & Tomato 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 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
06 -
2 tbsp tomato paste
07 -
1 tsp dried oregano
08 -
1/2 tsp dried basil
09 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Protein-Packed Creamy Core
10 -
24 oz (3 cups) low-fat cottage cheese (1% or 2%)
11 -
1 large egg
12 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
13 -
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
→ Pasta & Golden Cheesy Crown
14 -
12 oz short pasta (e.g., penne, ziti)
15 -
2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook 12 oz short pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. This initial step ensures your High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake with Ground Beef comes together efficiently.
02 -
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb lean ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned. Drain excess fat, then add 1 yellow onion, diced, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in 3 cloves garlic, minced, for 1 minute.
03 -
Stir in 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp dried oregano, and 1/2 tsp dried basil. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let the hearty beef sauce cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
04 -
In a medium bowl, combine 24 oz low-fat cottage cheese, 1 large egg, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley. Mix until well combined. This creamy mixture is the protein-packed core of your High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake with Ground Beef.
05 -
Spread half of the cooked pasta in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with half of the beef sauce, then dollop half of the cottage cheese mixture over it. Sprinkle with 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers with remaining pasta, sauce, cottage cheese, and mozzarella.
06 -
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake with Ground Beef is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
07 -
Let the baked pasta rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to portion and ensuring a perfect slice every time. Garnish with extra fresh parsley if desired.
# Notes:
01 -
For an extra veggie boost, sauté diced bell peppers or mushrooms with the onion.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
03 -
Assemble the bake up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time if baking from cold.
04 -
Serve this hearty bake with a simple green salad and some crusty bread for a complete and 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: 643 kcal
Total Fat: 24 g
Total Carbohydrate: 55 g
Protein: 50 g