Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon
Healthy Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake With Veggies 2025 12 16 202805 150x150 1

Healthy Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake With Veggies

A cozy, healthy pasta bake packed with cottage cheese, veggies, and flavors perfect for busy weeknights.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups penne pasta, dry
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 4 large cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 3 cups baby spinach
  • 2 cups cottage cheese, 2%MF
  • 2 cups marinara
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • Salt + pepper, to taste
  • 5 large leaves fresh basil, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the penne in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  4. Add broccoli florets and cook for 3–4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
  5. Stir in baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 1–2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, sautéed veggies, cottage cheese, and marinara until evenly combined. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top and sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the surface.
  8. Bake for 15–18 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and edges are lightly golden.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

Notes

For a vegan version, substitute cottage cheese with blended tofu and use vegan cheese. Great for meal prep; store leftovers for up to 4 days.

  • Author: soukaina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian