Go Back
healthy high protein cottage cheese baked ziti

Healthy High Protein Cottage Cheese Baked Ziti

This Healthy High Protein Cottage Cheese Baked Ziti is creamy, comforting, and surprisingly light. Blended cottage cheese creates a rich, velvety sauce while boosting protein without sacrificing flavor. It’s a satisfying, wholesome twist on a classic baked pasta that’s perfect for meal prep or easy family dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 6
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta

  • 12 oz ziti or penne

Sauce

  • 3 cups marinara sauce

Cheese

  • 1½ cups cottage cheese 2% or full fat
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan

Protein (optional but recommended)

  • 1 lb lean ground turkey or chicken

Seasoning

  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper

Instructions  

Step 1: Cook the pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook pasta until just al dente.
  • Drain and set aside.
  • Don’t overcook. The pasta will bake again.

Step 2: Cook the protein

  • Heat a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add ground turkey or chicken.
  • Cook until no longer pink.
  • Season with salt and pepper.
  • Drain extra liquid if needed.

Step 3: Blend the cottage cheese

  • Add cottage cheese to a blender.
  • Blend until smooth.
  • Scrape sides as needed.
  • This step makes the sauce creamy.

Step 4: Mix the sauce

  • In a large bowl, combine:
  • Marinara sauce
  • Blended cottage cheese
  • Garlic powder
  • Italian seasoning
  • Stir until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the ziti

  • Heat oven to 375°F.
  • Spread a thin layer of sauce in a baking dish.
  • Add half the pasta.
  • Add half the meat.
  • Spoon over sauce.
  • Repeat layers.

Step 6: Add cheese and bake

  • Top with mozzarella and parmesan.
  • Cover with foil.
  • Bake for 25 minutes.
  • Uncover and bake 10 more minutes.
  • Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Video

Notes

📝 Notes

  • Use whole wheat or high-protein pasta for extra nutrition
  • Substitute cottage cheese with ricotta if preferred
  • Add spinach or zucchini for more veggies
  • Use low-sodium marinara to control salt
  • Top with extra mozzarella for a golden crust
  • Assemble ahead and refrigerate before baking
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days
  • Reheat gently in oven or microwave to retain creaminess

🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 320   Carbohydrates: 38g   Fiber: 5g   Sugars: 6g   Protein: 25g   Fat: 10g   Saturated Fat: 4g   Cholesterol: 45mg   Sodium: 450mg   Potassium: 500mg   Calcium: 200mg   Iron: 3mg
Keyword Healthy High Protein Cottage Cheese Baked Ziti