Description
This cottage cheese pasta bake is comfort food with a healthy twist. Packed with fiber-rich broccoli and spinach, layered with protein from cottage cheese and mozzarella, and wrapped in a saucy, garlicky hug—this is a feel-good meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Ingredients
• 3 cups dry penne (or any short pasta)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 large garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups broccoli florets (about 5 oz / 142g)
• 3 cups baby spinach (tightly packed)
• 2 cups 2% cottage cheese (500g / 17 oz)
• 2 cups marinara or tomato sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 5 fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add broccoli and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
In a large bowl, mix cottage cheese, marinara, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir in cooked pasta and veggies until well combined.
Transfer to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella over the top.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Fat: 12g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 35g per serving
- Fiber: 4g per serving
- Protein: 20g per serving