Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef

The Ultimate Comfort Food You Didn’t Know You Needed

Ever had a warm, cheesy hug in a baking dish? That’s exactly what you’re getting with this Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef. It’s got layers of creamy cottage cheese, zesty marinara, and perfectly cooked whole wheat penne that will have the whole family coming back for seconds. Plus, it all comes together in one pan—fewer dishes, more yum!

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is all about easy comfort. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your dinner table:

• Quick Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pan, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
• Family-Friendly: Who can resist gooey cheese and pasta? Even picky eaters will be asking for the secret sauce. Spoiler alert: it’s just pure deliciousness.
• Affordable & Nutritious: Load up on protein while keeping an eye on your wallet. Lean ground beef and cottage cheese give this dish a healthy twist without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

• 12 oz whole wheat penne pasta
• 1 lb lean ground beef (93% lean or higher)
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups cottage cheese (full-fat preferred)
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Let’s make dinner! Follow these simple steps:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the whole wheat penne until al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than package directions. Drain thoroughly and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water for texture adjustments if needed.

2. While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the ground beef with diced onion and minced garlic until the beef reaches 165°F internal temperature (about 8-10 minutes). Drain any excess grease, then season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy.

4. Preheat your oven to 375°F. In your large baking dish, layer the cooked pasta first, then evenly distribute the beef mixture, and top with marinara sauce. Mix gently to combine.

5. Dollop the cottage cheese mixture over the pasta and spread evenly with a spatula. Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, covering completely.

6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is golden brown and bubbling around the edges. Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving for easier slicing and optimal texture, then garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

How to Make Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef (Overview)

This pasta bake comes together faster than you can say “What’s for dinner?” Just boil some pasta, brown the beef with onions and garlic, mix it up with your cheese sauce, and pile it all into a baking dish. Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference! After a quick bake, you’re ready to dig into a plate of cheesy goodness. What’s not to love about that?

How to Serve Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef

Serve this dish fresh out of the oven with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top. Picture this: gooey, melty cheese, vibrant marinara, and the heartiness of whole wheat pasta all coming together in one glorious slice. Pair it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread for an irresistible dinner combo that smells heavenly and looks colorful on the table!

How to Store Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef

Leftovers? Yes, please! This pasta bake keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

Tips to Make Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef

Want to elevate your pasta bake? Here are a few tricks:

• Mix Up the Cheeses: Try adding ricotta or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a flavor boost.
• Add Veggies: Sneak in some spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Use Different Sauces: Switch up the marinara for alfredo or a pesto sauce, and get creative!

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter, healthier twist. You can also make it vegan by using tofu ricotta and a dairy-free cheese option. The possibilities are endless!

FAQs

Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it the night before and pop it in the oven the next day.

What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
Cream cheese or ricotta can work in a pinch, but cottage cheese gives a unique texture and flavor.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, let it cool completely, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Just reheat properly before serving!

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