12 Best Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake Recipes!

ByViolet ParkerEditorial Policy

I absolutely love a pasta bake, but as they’re usually laden with tons of cheese, they’re not always the best choice if you’re trying to make healthier choices and keep a closer eye on your calorie intake. That’s why I’m obsessed right now with cottage cheese pasta bake recipes! By replacing some of the more traditional cheese with cottage cheese, it’s so easy to create a lighter, healthier dish that’s every bit as creamy and satisfying. In this collection, I’m sharing my 12 favorite recipes that you can try yourself. 

Here’s why I think you’ll love these cottage cheese pasta bakes:

  • They’re lower in calories and higher in protein, making it super simple to stay on track with your health and wellness goals, without having to give up pasta!
  • They each serve 4-6 people, so they’re perfect for families or for getting organised with your meal prep. If you have leftovers, they’re delicious for lunch the next day
  • They’re really simple to prepare. No expert cooking skills, specialist equipment, or fancy ingredients necessary
  • There’s something for all tastes and preferences. From the ever popular classic alfredo pasta bake, to simple cheese and tomato, to protein packed tuna cottage cheese pasta bake

Let’s jump straight into the recipes… 

1. Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta Bake

cottage cheese alfredo pasta bake

This Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta Bake is a lighter version of the classic Alfredo, featuring a creamy cottage cheese sauce that’s rich, satisfying, and much lower in fat.

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 cups cottage cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  3. In a blender, combine cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
  4. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the garlic and heat through.
  5. Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce and transfer to a greased baking dish.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
  7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.

2. Tuna Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake

tuna cottage cheese pasta bake

This Tuna Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake is a comforting dish that combines the creamy texture of cottage cheese with the savory flavor of tuna. It’s perfect for a quick and healthy high protein weeknight dinner.

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz rotini pasta
  • 2 cans tuna, drained
  • 2 cups cottage cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together cottage cheese, shredded cheddar, milk, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Fold in the tuna and cooked pasta, then transfer to a greased baking dish.
  4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and the dish is bubbly.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.

3. Cottage Cheese and Tomato Pasta Bake

cottage cheese and tomato pasta bake

This Cottage Cheese and Tomato Pasta Bake is a simple and delicious dish featuring tangy tomato sauce, creamy cottage cheese, and perfectly baked pasta.

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
  • 2 cups cottage cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, marinara sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce mixture and transfer to a greased baking dish.
  4. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve.

4. Cottage Cheese Pizza Pasta Bake

cottage cheese pizza pasta bake

This Cottage Cheese Pizza Pasta Bake brings together the best of pizza and pasta in one dish. It’s loaded with all your favorite pizza toppings, making it a fun and family-friendly meal.

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 cups cottage cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together cottage cheese, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Fold in the cooked pasta, pepperoni, black olives, and green bell pepper. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
  4. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Serve hot.

5. Spinach Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake

spinach cottage cheese pasta bake

This Spinach Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake is a nutrient-packed dish that’s rich in flavor and creamy goodness. The spinach adds a fresh touch to the creamy cottage cheese and pasta.

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz farfalle pasta
  • 2 cups cottage cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together cottage cheese, chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese mixture and transfer to a greased baking dish.
  4. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and the dish is bubbly.
  5. Serve hot.

6. Buffalo Chicken Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake

buffalo chicken cottage cheese pasta bake

This Buffalo Chicken Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake is a spicy, creamy, and hearty dish that’s perfect for buffalo chicken lovers. It’s loaded with flavor and protein.

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz rotini pasta
  • 2 cups cottage cheese
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together cottage cheese, buffalo sauce, shredded chicken, ranch dressing, and chopped green onions.
  3. Fold in the cooked pasta and transfer to a greased baking dish.
  4. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.

7. Bacon and Tomato Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake

bacon and tomato cottage cheese pasta bake

This Bacon and Tomato Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake combines smoky bacon, juicy tomatoes, and creamy cottage cheese for a rich and savory dish that’s sure to please.

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 cups cottage cheese
  • 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together cottage cheese, crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese mixture and transfer to a greased baking dish.
  4. Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and the dish is bubbly.
  6. Serve hot.

8. Ground Beef Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake

ground beef cottage cheese pasta bake

This Ground Beef Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake is a hearty and filling dish that combines savory ground beef, pasta, and cottage cheese for a comforting meal. It’s high in protein, and so delicious! 

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz ziti pasta
  • 2 cups cottage cheese
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
  3. In a large bowl, mix together cottage cheese, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  4. Fold in the cooked ground beef and pasta, then transfer to a greased baking dish.
  5. Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Serve hot.

9. Baked Ziti with Cottage Cheese

baked ziti with cottage cheese

This Baked Ziti with Cottage Cheese is a lighter version of the classic dish, featuring creamy cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a deliciously satisfying meal.

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz ziti pasta
  • 2 cups cottage cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together cottage cheese, marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese mixture and transfer to a greased baking dish.
  4. Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and the dish is bubbly.
  6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve.

10. Cottage Cheese and Broccoli Pasta Bake

cottage cheese and broccoli pasta bake

This Cottage Cheese and Broccoli Pasta Bake is a nutritious and delicious dish that combines the creamy texture of cottage cheese with the freshness of broccoli for a satisfying meal.

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 cups cottage cheese
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together cottage cheese, steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese mixture and transfer to a greased baking dish.
  4. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and the dish is bubbly.
  6. Serve hot.

11. Cottage Cheese and Pesto Pasta Bake

cottage cheese and pesto pasta bake

This Cottage Cheese and Pesto Pasta Bake is bursting with fresh flavors, combining creamy cottage cheese with vibrant basil pesto for a delightful and aromatic dish.

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz fusilli pasta
  • 2 cups cottage cheese
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together cottage cheese, basil pesto, shredded mozzarella, and cherry tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese mixture and transfer to a greased baking dish.
  4. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and the dish is bubbly.
  6. Serve hot.

12. Cottage Cheese and Mushroom Pasta Bake

cottage cheese and mushroom pasta bake

This Cottage Cheese and Mushroom Pasta Bake is a savory and earthy dish that combines the rich flavors of mushrooms with creamy cottage cheese for a comforting meal.

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 cups cottage cheese
  • 2 cups sliced mushrooms
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, mix together cottage cheese, cooked mushrooms, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  4. Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese mixture and transfer to a greased baking dish.
  5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and the dish is bubbly.
  7. Serve hot.

These 12 high protein, healthy cottage cheese pasta bake recipes offer a delicious variety of flavors and ingredients, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish or a lighter, veggie-packed meal, there’s a recipe here to satisfy your cravings. Which one is your favorite? Leave a comment and share your thoughts!