High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta with Ground Turkey (Print Version)
High-protein cottage cheese pasta with ground turkey offers a creamy, satisfying meal. Quick to prepare, it's packed with flavor and nutrients for a healthy dinner.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Foundation
01 -
1 lb lean ground turkey (93/7)
02 -
12 oz whole wheat penne pasta
→ Savory Sauce Builders
03 -
1 tbsp olive oil
04 -
1 medium yellow onion, diced
05 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
2 tbsp tomato paste
07 -
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
08 -
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
09 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
10 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Creamy Protein Infusion
11 -
2 cups low-fat cottage cheese (1% or 2%)
→ Fresh Finish & Garnish
12 -
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
13 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
# Instructions:
01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz whole wheat penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. This forms the hearty foundation for your High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta with Ground Turkey.
02 -
While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb lean ground turkey (93/7) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the cooked turkey aside.
03 -
In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil. Add 1 medium yellow onion, diced, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in 4 cloves garlic, minced, and 2 tbsp tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 -
Pour in 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes. Stir in 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld for your High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta with Ground Turkey.
05 -
Return the cooked ground turkey to the skillet with the sauce. Add the drained 12 oz whole wheat penne pasta. Stir well to combine all ingredients, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the rich tomato sauce.
06 -
Remove the skillet from heat. Gently fold in 2 cups low-fat cottage cheese (1% or 2%) until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain some texture. This step infuses the creamy protein into your High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta with Ground Turkey.
07 -
Serve immediately. Garnish each serving with 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy this satisfying High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta with Ground Turkey.
# Notes:
01 -
Feel free to swap whole wheat penne for another short pasta like rotini or fusilli. For a leaner option, use 99% lean ground turkey.
02 -
Store leftover High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta with Ground Turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
03 -
To prevent the cottage cheese from curdling, ensure you remove the skillet from the heat before stirring it in. Gentle folding helps maintain its creamy texture.
04 -
For an extra boost of veggies, serve this pasta with a side salad or steamed green beans. A sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes can add more heat if desired.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
Colander
04 -
Cutting board
05 -
Chef's knife
06 -
Measuring cups
07 -
Measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 676 kcal
Total Fat: 17 g
Total Carbohydrate: 80 g
Protein: 56 g