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Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 650
A hearty and protein-packed pasta bake combining lean ground beef, creamy cottage cheese, and melted mozzarella for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Vegetables and Oils

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Meat

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7)

Vegetables

  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

Pasta

  • 12 oz short pasta (e.g., penne, ziti)

Canned Goods

  • 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

Herbs and Spices

  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Seasonings

  • to taste Salt and black pepper

Dairy and Eggs

  • 24 oz low-fat cottage cheese
  • 1 large egg

Cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh Herbs

  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Cheese

  • 2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

Instructions 

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta until al dente, then drain.
  • In a skillet, heat olive oil, cook ground beef until browned, add onion and garlic, cook until softened. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, herbs, and simmer 10 minutes.
  • Mix cottage cheese, egg, Parmesan, and parsley in a bowl. Combine cooked pasta with meat sauce, layer in baking dish, dollop cottage cheese mixture, then top with mozzarella.
  • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Rest 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, add fresh basil or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Calories: 650kcal
Cost: $15
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Beef, cottage cheese, pasta