Why Make This Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef
This Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef is a delicious way to enjoy comfort food that’s not only hearty but also packed with protein. Whether you’re aiming for a wholesome family dinner or meal prep for the week, this bake has you covered. The combination of whole wheat pasta, lean ground beef, and creamy cottage cheese makes a dish that is rich in flavor and satisfying. Plus, it’s so easy to pull together, and the leftovers taste just as great!
How to Make Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef
Making this Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake is straightforward and fun! Start by cooking your whole wheat penne pasta to a perfect al dente texture. As the pasta boils, brown the ground beef alongside diced onions and minced garlic until the beef is thoroughly cooked. This step fills your kitchen with a mouth-watering aroma—it’s hard not to be excited! Once everything is prepared, layer the ingredients together and bake. The final result? A bubbly, cheesy delight that is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
- 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:
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the whole wheat penne pasta until al dente, which is about 1-2 minutes less than the package directions. Drain thoroughly and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, just in case you need to adjust the texture later.
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Brown them together until the beef reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, which should take around 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease, then season your mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large baking dish, start layering: first, add the cooked pasta. Next, evenly distribute the beef mixture over the pasta. Pour the marinara sauce on top and mix gently to combine everything.
Now, dollop the cottage cheese mixture over your pasta bake and spread it evenly with a spatula. Finally, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese all over, ensuring everything is covered.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbling around the edges. Once done, allow it to rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps with easier slicing and optimal texture. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (assuming 6 servings):
- Calories: 472
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 98mg
- Sodium: 666mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 36g
How to Serve Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef
This Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake serves beautifully as a main dish. Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It can also be a fantastic option for potlucks, family gatherings, or game-day parties. Cut it into generous squares and serve it with garlic bread on the side for a cozy experience.
How to Store Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef
If you have leftovers, you can store this pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You may want to add a splash of reserved pasta water to retain moisture.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef
- Use fresh ingredients: Using fresh garlic and good-quality marinara sauce can significantly enhance the flavor.
- Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your bake, as ovens vary. You want the cheese bubbly but not burnt.
- Make it creamy: If you prefer an even creamier texture, mix in another cup of Greek yogurt or cottage cheese.
- Add veggies: Sneak in some sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
Delicious Variations
- Turkey Swap: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Veggie Delight: Replace meat with a mixture of roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers for a vegetarian take.
- Cheesy Extra: For more cheese, add ricotta cheese to the mixture or top with provolone for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat?
Absolutely! You can use regular penne if you prefer. Just keep in mind that whole wheat pasta provides more fiber and is a healthier option.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake gluten-free, switch out the whole wheat penne for a gluten-free alternative, like chickpea or rice pasta. Just ensure the marinara sauce is also gluten-free.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the entire dish a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just remember to cover it tightly. Bake it just before you’re ready to serve!
Conclusion
This Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef is hearty, nutritious, and perfect for any occasion. The blend of flavors and textures makes it a meal that everyone will love. With easy steps and plenty of room for personal touches, you simply can’t go wrong. Give it a try this week, and feel free to share your experience—happy cooking!
Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the whole wheat penne pasta until al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than the package directions. Drain thoroughly and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Brown them together until the beef reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess grease and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large baking dish, layer the cooked pasta, then add the beef mixture evenly over the pasta. Pour the marinara sauce on top and mix gently.
- Dollop the cottage cheese mixture over the pasta bake and spread it evenly with a spatula. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbling. Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.