Healthy High Protein Cottage Cheese Ziti

This healthy high protein cottage cheese baked ziti makes a satisfying meal that comforts without weighing you down. It combines creamy cottage cheese with the classic baked pasta experience, bringing extra protein and a lighter texture to a family favorite. Perfect for weeknights when you want something filling but wholesome.

I first made this on a busy weeknight when I wanted comfort food without the guilt. Now it’s a staple when protein-packed meals are on the menu and everyone loves how creamy and flavorful it is.

Ingredients

• Pasta: ziti or penne work well since their tubes trap the sauce making every bite saucy
• Marinara sauce: choose your favorite jarred sauce or homemade for best flavor
• Pasta water: keeps the sauce loose and helps it stick to noodles, don’t skip reserving it
• Cottage cheese: opt for 2 percent or 4 percent fat for creaminess, blending it smooth mimics ricotta texture
• Garlic powder, dried basil and oregano: essential herbs that deepen the Italian flavor profile
• Salt and black pepper: seasoning basics that bring all ingredients together
• Lean ground turkey, chicken, or beef: adds protein and a meaty richness (optional but tasty)
• Shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan: cheese layers that melt and brown beautifully on top
• Fresh spinach and sliced mushrooms: optional veggies that boost nutrients and texture
• Red pepper flakes: for a slight kick if you like a bit of heat

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics and Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti until al dente, about one to two minutes less than package directions to keep pasta firm enough for baking. Reserve one cup of pasta water, then drain pasta and set it aside.

Blend the Cottage Cheese Smooth:

Add cottage cheese, garlic powder, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to a blender. Blend until completely smooth and creamy, resembling a ricotta cheese texture. This step is key so no lumps remain and your baked ziti has a velvety consistency.

Prepare the Protein if Desired:

Heat a skillet over medium heat, add your ground turkey, chicken, or beef, and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from getting greasy.

Combine Sauce Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the blended cottage cheese and marinara sauce. Add in the cooked protein, if using. Gradually stir in reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce into a creamy, easy-to-mix consistency that clings well to noodles.

Mix Pasta and Sauce Together:

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce mixture and toss gently until every piece is coated evenly with the creamy sauce.

Assemble the Baked Ziti:

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). In a 9 by 13 inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta and sauce mixture in an even layer. Sprinkle with half of the shredded mozzarella. Add the remaining pasta mixture, then top with the rest of the mozzarella and the grated parmesan.

Bake Until Golden and Bubbling:

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The cheese should be melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let the baked ziti rest for five to ten minutes before serving to let everything set nicely.

My favorite ingredient has to be the cottage cheese since blending it smooth takes the place of ricotta with fewer calories and more protein. Making this recipe always brings back memories of cozy family dinners, especially on chilly nights when everyone gathers eagerly for a warm plate of baked comfort.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of water or marinara and cover with foil so it warms evenly without drying out. This dish also freezes well; portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to three months.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have cottage cheese, a mixture of ricotta and Greek yogurt can work though the protein count may be lower. For marinara, homemade or store-bought with all natural ingredients is best to avoid excess sugars. Use ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or roasted vegetables for a full meal. This baked ziti also pairs well with garlic bread for an indulgent touch when serving to guests or for special occasions.

This baked ziti brings a wholesome twist to classic comfort food, great for any day of the week.

FAQs about Recipes

→ Can I use different pasta shapes for this dish?

Yes, penne or similar pasta shapes can be used interchangeably with ziti for best texture and sauce absorption.

→ How do I ensure the cottage cheese mixture is smooth?

Blend cottage cheese with garlic powder, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper until creamy and smooth, resembling ricotta in texture.

→ Is it necessary to include meat in this dish?

Protein like ground turkey, chicken, or beef is optional but recommended to enhance flavor and nutritional value.

→ What role does the reserved pasta water play?

Pasta water helps loosen the sauce mixture, ensuring it coats the pasta evenly and improves the dish’s creaminess.

→ How long should I bake the casserole for best results?

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, fresh spinach and sliced mushrooms can be included for extra flavor and nutrients.