Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef & Cottage Cheese (Print Version)
High-protein pasta bake featuring lean ground beef, creamy cottage cheese, and your favorite pasta. A hearty, satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ Hearty Foundation
01 -
1 lb lean ground beef (93/7)
02 -
12 oz whole wheat penne pasta
03 -
1 large yellow onion, diced
04 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
→ Creamy Protein Powerhouse
05 -
2 cups low-fat cottage cheese (1% or 2%)
06 -
1 large egg
07 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Savory Tomato & Spice Blend
08 -
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
09 -
2 tbsp tomato paste
10 -
1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
11 -
2 tsp Italian seasoning
12 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
13 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Golden Cheese Topping
14 -
1 1/2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
15 -
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cook 12 oz whole wheat penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside. This initial step prepares the foundation for your hearty Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef.
02 -
In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, brown 1 lb lean ground beef (93/7) over medium-high heat, breaking it apart. Drain any excess fat. Add 1 large yellow onion, diced, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in 3 cloves garlic, minced, for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 -
Stir in 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth, 2 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional), salt, and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
04 -
While the sauce simmers, in a medium bowl, combine 2 cups low-fat cottage cheese (1% or 2%), 1 large egg, and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. This creamy blend adds a protein boost to your Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef.
05 -
Add the cooked 12 oz whole wheat penne pasta to the skillet with the tomato-beef sauce and toss to coat evenly. Spread half of the pasta mixture into the bottom of the skillet. Dollop half of the cottage cheese mixture over the pasta, then sprinkle with 3/4 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese.
06 -
Repeat the layering process with the remaining pasta mixture, cottage cheese mixture, and the remaining 3/4 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown on top.
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 and makes for easier serving. Garnish with 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley and enjoy warm.
# Notes:
01 -
For a leaner option, substitute the 1 lb lean ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Adjust cooking time as needed.
02 -
Assemble this bake up to 24 hours in advance; cover and refrigerate. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time. Leftovers keep well for 3-4 days.
03 -
Serve your Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef alongside a crisp green salad and some garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
04 -
Boost the flavor by adding a pinch of dried oregano or basil along with the Italian seasoning for an even richer tomato sauce.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet
02 -
Large pot
03 -
9x13 inch baking dish
04 -
Mixing bowls
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 510 kcal
Total Fat: 14 g
Total Carbohydrate: 51 g
Protein: 43 g