Ingredients
– 2 cups uncooked whole wheat pasta
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup chopped spinach (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup diced zucchini
– 1 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Olive oil spray or 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Creating the Healthy Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake With Veggies is simple and enjoyable. Just follow these steps:
1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let it heat up.
2. Cook pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil (if using) and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add other veggies: Stir in the bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften. Season with the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
5. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, cottage cheese, marinara sauce, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
6. Transfer to baking dish: Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish and spread it evenly.
7. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
8. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Cool and serve: Once done, remove from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
These simple steps will guide you through the process of creating this incredible pasta bake that is sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 20g