Hello friends, Chef André here!
If you love baked ziti but want a lighter, healthier version that still delivers comfort and flavor, this Healthy High Protein Cottage Cheese Baked Ziti is about to become your new go-to.
Instead of traditional ricotta, this recipe uses blended cottage cheese to create a creamy, rich texture while significantly boosting protein and keeping calories in check. Paired with hearty pasta, flavorful marinara, and melty mozzarella, this dish gives you everything you love about baked ziti—with a nutritious twist.
What I love most about this High Protein Cottage Cheese Baked Ziti is how practical it is. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or anytime you want comfort food that actually fuels your body.
Why This Cottage Cheese Baked Ziti Works So Well
This recipe checks all the right boxes:
- High in protein, thanks to cottage cheese
- Creamy and satisfying without being heavy
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
- Family-friendly comfort food
- Ready in about 40 minutes
Classic baked pasta—reimagined.
Ingredients for Healthy High Protein Cottage Cheese Baked Ziti
Pasta & Sauce
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Black pepper, to taste
Creamy Protein Layer
- 2 cups low-fat cottage cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Cheese Topping
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)
Optional Protein Boost
- Cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles (optional)
Smart Substitutions by Chef André
- Whole wheat or chickpea pasta for extra fiber
- Dairy-free cottage-style cheese for lactose-free
- Spinach or zucchini for extra veggies
- Low-sodium marinara for a lighter option
Step-by-Step Preparation – Chef André Guides You
1. Cook the Pasta
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook ziti in salted water until just al dente.
Drain and set aside.
2. Blend the Cottage Cheese
In a blender or food processor, blend cottage cheese until smooth.
Add egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper.
Blend again until creamy.
3. Assemble the Baked Ziti
In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with marinara sauce.
Spread half the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish.
Add the cottage cheese mixture evenly on top.
Layer the remaining pasta over the cheese mixture.
4. Add Cheese & Bake
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden.
Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Creative Variations by Chef André
Customize your High Protein Cottage Cheese Baked Ziti easily:
🥬 Veggie-Loaded
Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
🌶 Spicy Baked Ziti
Add red pepper flakes to the marinara.
🧄 Extra Flavor
Add roasted garlic to the cottage cheese blend.
🍝 Low-Carb Version
Use zucchini noodles mixed with pasta.
Chef’s Tips for the Creamiest Results
- Blend cottage cheese well for ricotta-like texture
- Don’t overcook pasta—it finishes baking in the oven
- Let it rest before slicing for clean servings
- Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt
Simple steps, perfect results.
What to Serve with Cottage Cheese Baked Ziti
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Simple green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread or flatbread
- Steamed broccoli
A balanced, comforting meal.
Storage & Meal Prep
- Refrigerator: Store up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze baked ziti up to 2 months
- Reheat: Oven or microwave until warmed through
Perfect for busy weeks.
FAQ – High Protein Cottage Cheese Baked Ziti
Does it taste like cottage cheese?
No—once blended and baked, it tastes creamy and mild.
Is this kid-friendly?
Very! It tastes just like classic baked ziti.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes—assemble, refrigerate, and bake later.
Is this good for meal prep?
Excellent—stores and reheats well.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~420 kcal
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
(Values vary based on pasta and cheese used.)
Conclusion – Chef André’s Lighter Comfort Win 🧀🍝
This Healthy High Protein Cottage Cheese Baked Ziti proves you don’t have to give up comfort food to eat well. Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, it’s a smart twist on a classic that works for family dinners and meal prep alike.
If you try it, leave a comment, rate the recipe, and tell me what veggies or protein you added!
For safe food handling tips, I always recommend USDA Food Safety:
Happy cooking,
Chef André 👨🍳