Indulge in a comforting and nutritious meal with this Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake. Combining tender pasta, a medley of vegetables, and protein-rich cottage cheese, this dish offers a creamy interior topped with a crispy, melted cheese layer. It’s an ideal choice for a healthy, vegetarian dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Protein-Packed: Cottage cheese adds a substantial protein boost, making the meal both satisfying and nutritious.
- Vegetable-Rich: Incorporates broccoli and spinach, providing essential vitamins and minerals.
- Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
Ingredients
- 3 cups dry penne pasta (or any short pasta shape)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 large cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (approximately 5 ounces)
- 3 cups tightly packed baby spinach
- 2 cups 2% cottage cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and broccoli florets, sautéing for about 7 minutes. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large baking dish, mix together the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, cottage cheese, and marinara sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir until well combined.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top of the pasta mixture.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh basil and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
- Vegetable Substitutions: Replace broccoli with chopped zucchini or bell peppers, and swap spinach with kale for different flavors and nutrients.
- Cheese Alternatives: Substitute mozzarella with other melting cheeses like cheddar or provolone to change the taste profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
- Reheating: Reheat portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use a microwave for convenience.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta shape like rigatoni or farfalle works well in this recipe.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely, assemble the bake in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, bake as directed, adding extra time if needed.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I use instead of marinara sauce?
Any tomato-based sauce, such as arrabbiata or tomato basil, can be used as a substitute.
How can I add more protein to this dish?
Incorporate cooked chicken, ground turkey, or plant-based proteins like lentils into the mixture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it contains no meat products and is perfect for a vegetarian meal.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use dairy-free alternatives for cottage cheese and mozzarella to accommodate a dairy-free diet.
What other herbs can I use for garnish?
Fresh parsley or oregano can be used in place of basil for a different flavor.
How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Cook the pasta until just al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly during baking.
Can I add spices for extra flavor?
Yes, consider adding red pepper flakes for heat or Italian seasoning for additional flavor.
Conclusion
This Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake is a delightful blend of creamy and savory flavors, packed with protein and vegetables. Its simplicity and versatility make it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy experimenting with different vegetables and cheeses to make it uniquely yours.
Print
Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a wholesome and comforting Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake, a protein-packed and veggie-rich dinner perfect for the whole family. This easy-to-make, creamy pasta casserole features broccoli, spinach, and tender pasta baked under a golden mozzarella layer. It’s a delicious vegetarian dinner idea that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 3 cups dry penne pasta (or any short pasta shape)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 large cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (approximately 5 ounces)
- 3 cups tightly packed baby spinach
- 2 cups 2% cottage cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Sauté minced garlic and broccoli florets for about 7 minutes. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large baking dish, mix cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, cottage cheese, and marinara sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh basil and serve hot.
Notes
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Sauté minced garlic and broccoli florets for about 7 minutes. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large baking dish, mix cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, cottage cheese, and marinara sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh basil and serve hot.
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