Protein Pasta Bake: Creamy Cottage Cheese & Beef (Print Version)
Boost your dinner with a creamy protein pasta bake. Hearty beef, cottage cheese, and pasta combine for a satisfying, high-protein meal.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ Hearty Foundation
01 -
12 oz penne pasta, uncooked
02 -
1 lb lean ground beef (90/10)
→ Creamy Protein Powerhouse
03 -
2 cups low-fat cottage cheese (1% milkfat)
04 -
1/2 cup low-fat milk (1% milkfat)
05 -
1 1/2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided
→ Savory Aromatics & Sauce Base
06 -
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
07 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
08 -
1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
09 -
2 tbsp tomato paste
10 -
1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
11 -
1 tsp dried basil
12 -
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
→ Seasoning & Freshness
13 -
1 tsp salt, plus more to taste
14 -
1/2 tsp black pepper, plus more to taste
15 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook 12 oz penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. This initial step sets the stage for your delicious Creamy Protein Pasta Bake with Cottage Cheese & Beef.
02 -
In a large skillet, brown 1 lb lean ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart. Drain excess fat. Add 1 medium yellow onion, chopped, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in 3 cloves garlic, minced, for 1 minute.
03 -
Stir 2 tbsp tomato paste into the beef mixture, cooking for 1 minute. Add 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes, 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning, 1 tsp dried basil, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional), 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes.
04 -
In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups low-fat cottage cheese, 1/2 cup low-fat milk, and 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese. Mix until well combined. This creamy blend is key to the rich texture of your Creamy Protein Pasta Bake with Cottage Cheese & Beef.
05 -
Add the cooked penne pasta and the beef sauce to the bowl with the creamy cottage cheese mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated. Transfer the entire mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
06 -
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta bake. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
07 -
Remove the Creamy Protein Pasta Bake with Cottage Cheese & Beef from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for a vibrant finish.
# Notes:
01 -
For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also swap penne for ziti or rotini pasta.
02 -
Assemble the bake up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
03 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
04 -
This hearty pasta bake pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and some crusty garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
9x13 inch baking dish
04 -
Cutting board
05 -
Chef's knife
06 -
Measuring cups
07 -
Measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 537 kcal
Total Fat: 16 g
Total Carbohydrate: 53 g
Protein: 41 g