The Ultimate Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake Recipe You’ll Love

Cottage cheese turns this classic pasta bake into a surprisingly delightful culinary adventure.

Layers of melted cheese and tender noodles create a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug.

My kitchen always buzzes with excitement when I prepare this simple yet satisfying meal.

Rich, creamy textures blend perfectly with herbs and a golden-brown crispy top.

Unexpected ingredients elevate this recipe from ordinary to extraordinary, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

Weeknight dinners just got a whole lot more exciting with this irresistible pasta masterpiece.

You’ll want to bookmark this recipe and surprise everyone at the dinner table.

What’s to Love About Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake

• Cottage cheese creates a unique creamy texture that elevates a simple pasta dish, making it feel special without requiring fancy or expensive components.
• Flexible recipe allows quick vegetable swaps or protein additions, ensuring it adapts to family preferences and what's already in your refrigerator.
• One-dish wonder that satisfies multiple dietary needs, works great for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings with friends.

What You’ll Need for Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake

• Pasta: A classic base that provides hearty texture and satisfying substance to the dish.
• Cottage Cheese: A creamy protein-rich ingredient that adds smooth richness and tangy flavor.
• Marinara Sauce: A classic tomato-based sauce that brings vibrant color and traditional Italian taste.

• Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Melty cheeses that create a golden, crispy and flavorful crust on top of the pasta bake.

• Italian Seasoning, Salt, Pepper: Herbs and spices that bring depth and balanced seasoning to the overall dish.
• Olive Oil: A cooking fat that helps sauté vegetables and adds a subtle richness.

• Chopped Vegetables: Fresh ingredients that can add extra nutrition, texture, and personal variation to the pasta bake.

How to Prepare Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 350F (175C).

This warmth will transform your pasta into a mouthwatering masterpiece.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta Perfection

Grab a big pot and fill it with water.

Sprinkle in some salt and bring it to a rolling boil.

Drop in your pasta and let it dance in the bubbling water for 8-10 minutes until it’s perfectly tender.

Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Sizzle the Veggie Companions

Grab a skillet and splash in some olive oil.

Toss in your chopped vegetables and let them sizzle and soften for 3-4 minutes.

They’ll add a burst of flavor and nutrition to your dish.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Mixture

• Cooked pasta
• Cottage cheese
• Marinara sauce
• Sauteed vegetables
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Pepper

Stir everything until it’s beautifully combined and looks absolutely irresistible.

Step 5: Build Your Pasta Masterpiece

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour in your pasta mixture.

Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese across the top, creating a golden, cheesy blanket.

Step 6: Bake to Bubbly Brilliance

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes.

Watch for the cheese to melt into a bubbly wonderland and the edges to turn a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Give your pasta bake a short breather for 5-10 minutes.

This helps it set and makes cutting and serving a breeze.

Dig in and enjoy your creamy, cheesy creation!

Helpful Hints for Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake

• Add ground chicken or turkey for extra protein, making this dish perfect for fitness enthusiasts and muscle builders.
• Experiment with different vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers to increase nutritional value and add vibrant colors to your pasta bake.
• Replace mozzarella with low-fat alternatives or dairy-free cheese for those following specific dietary requirements or watching calorie intake.
• Use gluten-free pasta to transform this recipe into a celiac-friendly meal without compromising on taste or texture.
• Prepare this dish in advance and refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze for future quick and delicious meals that save time during busy weeks.

Best Storage Tips for Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of other food odors.
• Wrap the cooled pasta bake in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date to track storage time.
• Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until heated through.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Cover the pasta bake with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning. Warm for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165F.

Sides That Work with Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a light, acidic Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the creamy pasta's richness and complement its tangy cottage cheese flavor.
• Serve with Fresh Herb Salad: Create a zesty green salad with arugula, basil, and parsley dressed in a light lemon vinaigrette to balance the pasta's hearty texture and add brightness.
• Match with Garlic Bread: Prepare crusty garlic bread with olive oil and herbs to provide a crunchy contrast to the soft, creamy pasta bake and soak up any extra sauce.
• Complement with Citrus-Infused Sparkling Water: Offer a refreshing, palate-cleansing citrus-infused sparkling water to help cleanse the palate between bites of the rich, cheesy pasta dish.

Ways to Tweak Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake

• Vegan Veggie Pasta Bake: Replace cottage cheese with silken tofu blended until smooth, use plant-based mozzarella, and add nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor. Boost protein with chickpeas or lentils.
• Gluten-Free Friendly Version: Swap regular pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or chickpea flour. Ensure marinara sauce is gluten-free certified.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Substitute pasta with riced cauliflower or zucchini noodles. Use low-carb marinara and add extra herbs for flavor enhancement.
• Protein-Packed Mediterranean Style: Incorporate diced grilled chicken or crumbled turkey, add kalamata olives, spinach, and swap Italian seasoning with dried oregano and basil for a Mediterranean profile.

FAQs

• Is cottage cheese a good protein source?

Cottage cheese is an excellent protein source, providing about 14 grams of protein per half-cup serving. It’s a lean protein option that helps build muscle and supports overall nutrition.

• Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use various pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli. Choose pasta that holds sauce well and creates a hearty texture in the bake.

• How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?

This recipe is already vegetarian. You can enhance protein by adding plant-based alternatives like tofu, chickpeas, or additional vegetables like spinach or zucchini.

• Is this pasta bake suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish can be prepared in advance, stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and reheated easily in the oven or microwave, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake Recipe

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4.5 from 28 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Comforting cottage cheese pasta bake blends Mediterranean flavors with hearty pasta and rich, tangy cheese. Simple ingredients create a satisfying meal that brings warmth and deliciousness to your dinner table, promising a delightful experience you’ll savor to the last bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
• 2 cups (480 milliliters) cottage cheese (low-fat or regular)
• 2 cups (480 milliliters) marinara sauce
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) parmesan cheese (grated)

Vegetables and Seasonings:

• 1 cup (240 milliliters) vegetables (spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini, chopped)
• 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Optional Ingredient:

• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil (for sauteing veggies)

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Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 350F (175C), preparing a welcoming environment for a delectable pasta transformation.
2. Boil a generously salted water pot, submerging pasta until it reaches perfect al dente texture in roughly 8-10 minutes. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
3. Optional vegetable enhancement: Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, gently sautéing chopped vegetables until they soften and develop a slight translucent quality, approximately 3-4 minutes.
4. Create a harmonious mixture by combining cooked pasta, cottage cheese, marinara sauce, sautéed vegetables, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a spacious mixing bowl. Stir until ingredients integrate seamlessly.
5. Transition the pasta medley into a greased 9×13-inch baking vessel, ensuring even distribution. Crown the mixture with an elegant layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, covering the surface completely.
6. Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven, allowing it to bake for 25-30 minutes. Watch for the cheese to transform into a molten, bubbling landscape with golden-kissed edges.
7. Once removed from the oven, permit the dish to rest and settle for 5-10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and structural integrity to develop before serving.

Notes

• Boost protein content by adding shredded chicken or ground turkey for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Swap marinara for creamy Alfredo sauce to create a richer, more indulgent version of this dish.
• Use whole wheat pasta to increase fiber intake and make the recipe more heart-healthy.
• Prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate unbaked, then pop it in the oven when ready to serve for a convenient meal prep option.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 55 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg