Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake Recipe
Introduction
This Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake is a simple and comforting dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Combining creamy cottage cheese with tangy tomato sauce and melted cheese on top, it’s a tasty meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, cottage cheese, and tomato sauce until well combined.
- Step 2: Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Step 3: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 4: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For added flavor, stir in some cooked vegetables like spinach or mushrooms before baking.
- Use low-fat cottage cheese for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.
- Try topping with grated Parmesan cheese for a sharper taste.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pasta instead of dried?
Yes, fresh pasta can be used; just adjust the cooking time accordingly before mixing with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
PrintCreamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake Recipe
A comforting and easy-to-make Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake that combines tender pasta with creamy cottage cheese and rich tomato sauce, topped with melted cheese for a deliciously bubbly finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Pasta
- 2 cups pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended)
Cottage Cheese Mixture
- 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese
- 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar preferred)
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain well.
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cottage cheese, and tomato sauce. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Assemble the bake: Transfer the pasta mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top to create a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the assembled dish for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the bake to set.
Notes
- Use low-fat cottage cheese for a lighter dish.
- For added flavor, mix in herbs like basil or oregano with the tomato sauce.
- You can substitute shredded cheese with a blend of mozzarella and parmesan for extra taste.
- Ensure pasta is not overcooked to avoid a mushy bake.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
Keywords: cottage cheese pasta bake, baked pasta, vegetarian pasta, easy pasta bake, cheesy pasta casserole
