Healthy High Protein Cottage Cheese Baked Ziti
High Protein Cottage Cheese Baked Ziti is a lighter, protein-packed version of the classic comfort dish. Blended cottage cheese creates a creamy, ricotta-like texture while adding more protein and fewer calories. Combined with pasta, marinara, lean protein, and melted mozzarella, this baked ziti is satisfying, nutritious, and perfect for meal prep or family dinners.It comes together quickly with simple ingredients, delivers incredible flavor, and offers a healthier twist on a traditional favorite.
Ingredients
Pasta & Sauce
- 12 ounces ziti or penne
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup pasta water reserved, as needed
High-Protein Cottage Cheese Mixture
- 2 cups cottage cheese 2% or 4%
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Protein (Optional but recommended)
- 1 pound lean ground turkey chicken, or beef
Cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the ziti until al dente (1–2 minutes less than package directions).
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water; drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Blend the Cottage Cheese
- Add cottage cheese, garlic powder, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to a blender.
- Blend until completely smooth and creamy, similar to ricotta texture.
Step 3: Cook the Protein (If Using)
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground turkey (or preferred protein).
- Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Cook until browned and fully cooked through.
- Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- In a large bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese and marinara sauce.
- Stir in cooked protein.
- Add pasta water as needed to make the mixture loose, creamy, and easy to mix.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the bowl of sauce.
- Mix until all noodles are evenly coated.
Step 6: Assemble the Baked Ziti
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread half of the pasta mixture into a 9x13 baking dish.
- Top with half of the mozzarella.
- Add remaining pasta mixture.
- Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and parmesan.
Step 7: Bake
- Place the baking dish in the oven.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving