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Creamy High Protein Cottage Cheese Baked Ziti Recipe Easy and Healthy Dinner Option

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A creamy, protein-packed baked ziti featuring blended cottage cheese for a smooth texture, perfect for a wholesome and comforting dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340g) ziti or penne pasta (regular or whole wheat for extra fiber)
  • Salt for boiling water
  • 1 1/2 cups (340g) low-fat cottage cheese (blend until smooth for best texture)
  • 1 cup (240ml) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese (Parmigiano-Reggiano preferred)
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 cups (720ml) marinara sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
  • 1 cup (240ml) shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of ziti pasta and cook until just al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes).
  3. Drain the pasta and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
  4. In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, beaten egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with marinara sauce and stir well to coat.
  6. Fold the cheese mixture into the pasta and sauce gently until well distributed.
  7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
  8. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.
  9. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown around edges.
  10. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Notes

Blend the cottage cheese for a smooth texture to avoid lumps. Cook pasta just shy of al dente to prevent mushiness after baking. Use good-quality marinara sauce for best flavor. If baking from refrigerated, add 5-10 minutes to baking time. Tent with foil if top browns too quickly.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked ziti, cottage cheese, high protein, easy dinner, healthy pasta, creamy baked pasta, comfort food

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