Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake

I’m obsessed with this Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake because it delivers over 40 grams of protein per serving without sacrificing that rich, cheesy comfort food experience we all crave. The secret is blending cottage cheese into a creamy sauce that sneaks in extra protein and nutrition while keeping every bite ultra-satisfying.

I started making this cottage cheese protein pasta bake on Sunday evenings when I needed something that could feed my family and provide leftovers for the week ahead. The first time I pulled it from the oven, the bubbling mozzarella and that irresistible aroma of garlic and marinara had everyone at the table before I could even set it down. What makes this recipe so special is how the cottage cheese mixture transforms into a velvety sauce that coats every piece of pasta, while the lean ground beef adds heartiness without excess fat. It’s become my go-to high protein pasta bake for meal prep, and I love knowing each serving packs serious nutrition into a dish that tastes like pure comfort.

What You’ll Need for This High Protein Pasta Bake

I always use full-fat cottage cheese in this recipe because it creates the creamiest, most luxurious texture. Low-fat versions can turn grainy when baked, and you’ll miss out on that silky sauce that makes this cottage cheese protein pasta bake so irresistible.

• 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
• 1 lb lean ground beef (93/7 or 90/10)
• 24 oz low-sodium marinara sauce
• 15 oz full-fat cottage cheese (pro tip: this is non-negotiable for the best texture)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

I prefer using low-moisture mozzarella because it melts beautifully without making the dish watery. If you want to sneak in extra vegetables, finely chopped spinach or mushrooms blend right into the beef mixture without anyone noticing.

How to Make This Protein-Packed Comfort Food

I recommend prepping all your ingredients before you start cooking. This cottage cheese protein pasta bake comes together quickly once you begin, and having everything measured and ready makes the process smooth and stress-free.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier. Fill a large pot with water and set it to boil for the pasta.

Step 2: Cook the pasta 1-2 minutes less than package directions (typically 8-10 minutes for rotini). It should still have a slight firmness in the center when you bite into it. The pasta will continue cooking in the oven, and you don’t want it to become mushy. Drain in a colander and set aside.

Step 3: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until it’s browned and no pink remains. You should see golden-brown bits forming on the meat. If using 93/7 beef, there may be minimal fat to drain. For 90/10, you’ll likely have 1-2 tablespoons to remove by tilting the pan and spooning it out.

Step 4: Stir the marinara sauce into the cooked beef and remove from heat. The sauce should coat all the meat evenly and smell fragrant with Italian herbs.

Step 5: In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, egg, 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds until the mixture is smooth and the egg is fully incorporated. This creates the creamy base that makes this cottage cheese protein pasta bake so special.

Step 6: Add the drained pasta and the cottage cheese mixture to the skillet with the beef and marinara. Stir everything together until each piece of pasta is coated with the creamy sauce. The cottage cheese should blend seamlessly with the marinara.

Step 7: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula, making sure it reaches all corners.

Step 8: Top with the shredded mozzarella cheese and the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, distributing them evenly across the surface for that perfect golden crust.

Step 9: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown at the edges. You should see small pools of bubbling cheese and smell that irresistible baked pasta aroma.

Step 10: Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes serving much cleaner. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Perfect Pairings for Your Protein Pasta Bake

This cottage cheese protein pasta bake is rich and satisfying, so lighter, fresh sides balance the meal beautifully.

Simple Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes dressed in a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the cheese and adds refreshing crunch to every bite.

Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is the classic pairing that lets you soak up every bit of that creamy sauce. It’s comfort food perfection when you want the best sides for cottage cheese protein pasta bake.

Roasted Broccoli: Roasted broccoli with a squeeze of lemon adds a nutritious, slightly charred vegetable element that complements the Italian flavors and boosts the meal’s fiber content.

Caesar Salad: The tangy, garlicky dressing and crisp romaine lettuce make Caesar salad an ideal companion, especially if you’re looking for a more substantial side.

More Delicious High-Protein Dinner Ideas

This cottage cheese protein pasta bake pairs wonderfully with other protein-packed recipes that make meal prep a breeze. For another satisfying pasta option, try the High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe, which delivers similar nutrition with a different flavor profile. When you’re craving comfort food with a twist, the Creamy Cottage Cheese Orzo offers the same protein benefits in a lighter preparation.

For variety in your weekly rotation, serve this pasta bake alongside the Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf or Ground Chicken Meatballs. These recipes all share the same meal-prep friendly qualities and provide the high protein content that helps keep you satisfied throughout the week.

Storing Your High Protein Pasta Bake

This cottage cheese protein pasta bake stores beautifully, which is why I make it every week for meal prep. Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and the flavors actually deepen overnight as the seasonings meld together.

For reheating, use the microwave for individual portions (2-3 minutes on high, stirring halfway through) or the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes if you’re reheating the whole dish. Add a splash of water or extra marinara sauce before reheating to keep it moist and creamy.

This cottage cheese protein pasta bake freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months. Portion it into individual servings in freezer-safe containers, then thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you need a nutritious, protein-packed dinner ready in minutes.

Your Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake Questions Answered

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