Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef

Cottage cheese protein pasta bake with ground beef is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s filled with layers of pasta, lean beef, and a creamy cheese topping that makes every bite delightful. This meal is not only satisfying but also easy to throw together, making it a family favorite at the dinner table.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This pasta bake is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s super easy to make, with ingredients you likely have on hand. It’s packed with protein thanks to the cottage cheese and ground beef, making it a filling option for the whole family. Plus, kids love the cheesy goodness, and it comes together quickly, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.

How to Make This Bake

Making this dish is straightforward. Start by cooking the pasta and browning the ground beef with some garlic and onion. Then mix the cottage cheese and yogurt for a creamy layer. Assemble everything in a baking dish and let the oven do the work. It’s simple enough for beginners, yet delicious enough to impress.

What You Need

Ingredients for Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef

• 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)

Step-by-Step Cooking Steps

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the whole wheat penne pasta 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 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 Serve

This pasta bake is great on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or fresh basil can enhance flavors, too. It’s perfect for family dinners, casual gathering, or meal prep for the week ahead.

How to Store

To store leftovers, allow the pasta bake to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. It can stay in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze it, wrap individual portions in plastic and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When reheating, warm in the oven until heated through, or microwave individual servings until hot.

Recipe Tips

• Cook pasta just under al dente for the best texture after baking.
• Reserve pasta water for a creamier final dish if needed.
• Use a lean ground beef to keep it healthier, or substitute with turkey or chicken.
• For a vegetarian option, replace the beef with lentils or mushrooms.
• Keep an eye on the cheese while baking to avoid over-browning.

Variations & Swaps

1. Vegetarian Option: Swap ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
2. Cheese Lovers: Add ricotta or provolone for extra richness.
3. Spice It Up: Include crushed red pepper flakes in the beef mix for a little heat.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish and store it unbaked in the fridge for up to a day. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When you’re ready to bake, it may need an extra few minutes in the oven since it will be cold.

Can I freeze this pasta bake?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just make sure it’s cooled completely, and then cover tightly before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings if you’re short on time; just make sure to check that it’s hot all the way through.

Can I use different cheeses?
Yes, you can certainly experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix can be delicious alternatives to mozzarella and Parmesan.

What should I serve with this dish?
A fresh salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this pasta bake. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef

A warm and comforting pasta bake filled with lean ground beef, layers of whole wheat penne, and a creamy cheese topping. Perfect for busy weeknights!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 500 kcal

Ingredients

  

Pasta and Meat

• 12 oz whole wheat penne pasta Cooked al dente
• 1 lb lean ground beef (93% lean or higher) Browned with onion and garlic
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

Seasonings

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Cheese Mixture

• 2 cups cottage cheese (full-fat preferred)
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

Sauce and Toppings

• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the whole wheat penne pasta 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.
• While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the ground beef with diced onion and minced garlic until beef reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease, then season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
• In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy.

Assembly and Baking

• Preheat your oven to 375°F. In your large baking dish, layer the cooked pasta first.
• Evenly distribute the beef mixture, and top with marinara sauce. Mix gently to combine.
• Dollop the cottage cheese mixture over the pasta and spread evenly with a spatula. Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, covering completely.
• 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. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Notes

This pasta bake is great on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or fresh basil can enhance flavors, too. To store leftovers, allow the pasta bake to cool completely before covering it tightly. It can stay in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze it, wrap individual portions in plastic and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Keyword Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake, family dinner, ground beef pasta, healthy pasta dish, Protein Pasta Bake