This High Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta is a tasty twist on regular pasta! It mixes creamy cottage cheese with your favorite noodles for a filling meal that’s both delicious and healthy.
Honestly, it’s a great way to sneak in extra protein without feeling like you’re eating a boring diet meal. I like to top it with some herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for that extra yum!
Making this dish is super easy—I just boil the pasta, mix in cottage cheese, and add my favorite veggies. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner when you need something satisfying!
a similar texture. For lactose intolerance, silken tofu offers a smooth, dairy-free alternative that works well in this recipe.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade is even better! If you’re short on time, blend canned tomatoes with garlic and herbs. This gives a fresh touch without the wait!
Cheeses: I love using Parmesan for its strong flavor. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy taste. The mozzarella keeps it gooey; consider dairy-free mozzarella for a vegan option.
How Do I Ensure the Cheese is Perfectly Melty?
The secret to bubbly, golden cheese lies in how you bake the pasta dish. Always preheat your oven! This ensures even cooking. Place your baking dish in the center for maximum heat distribution.
- Combine all ingredients well before baking to let flavors blend.
- Cover the dish with foil for the first 15 minutes to trap moisture, then remove to get that golden top.
- Watch closely in the last few minutes to avoid burning.
Don’t forget to let it cool a bit before serving. This makes slicing easier and keeps the cheese from sliding off the pasta!
How to Make High Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) whole wheat or gluten-free pasta (e.g., rigatoni or penne)
- 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably low-fat or fat-free)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (e.g., oregano, basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30-35 minutes in total, with around 10-15 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for baking. It’s a quick and tasty dish that combines hearty pasta with protein-rich cottage cheese—perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm). Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic into the skillet and sauté it for about 1 minute until it smells delightful. Now, stir in the marinara sauce along with the dried Italian herbs. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
3. Combine Ingredients:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cottage cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese with the marinara sauce mixture. Stir everything together until it’s nicely mixed. Add salt and pepper to fit your taste preferences.
4. Bake the Pasta:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the top generously with the remaining Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese to create a cheesy crust.
5. Bake:
Place the baking dish into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You want the cheese to melt perfectly and turn bubbly and golden brown on top. Just keep an eye on it as it cooks!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the pasta is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Now dig in and enjoy your delicious high protein cottage cheese pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the whole wheat pasta for any kind you prefer, such as gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose to ensure it’s cooked al dente.
Can I Substitute the Cottage Cheese?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, you can substitute it with ricotta cheese, Greek yogurt, or even a vegan alternative like cashew cream. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor might change slightly with different ingredients.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave it in a bowl, stirring occasionally to avoid hotspots.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by using marinara sauce without any meat and vegetarian cheeses. For a vegan version, substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan with dairy-free cheese options and replace the cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative like silken tofu blended with nutritional yeast.
