High-Protein Pizza Pasta Bake
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Diet: High-Protein
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz Protein-enriched pasta (such as chickpea or lentil rotini)
- 1 lb Lean ground turkey or 95% lean ground beef
- 1 cup Low-fat cottage cheese (blended for a smooth texture)
- 2 cups Marinara sauce (low sugar preferred)
- 1.5 cups Shredded low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup Turkey pepperoni slices
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.
- Step 2: Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the protein pasta according to the package directions, but remove it 2 minutes early so it is slightly undercooked (al dente). It will finish cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3: Brown the Meat: While the pasta is boiling, place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey or beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it into small crumbles with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
- Step 4: Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned meat, marinara sauce, blended cottage cheese, garlic powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Step 5: Layer and Top: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, then arrange the turkey pepperoni slices across the cheese.
- Step 6: Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. For a crispy top, you can broil it for the last 2 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.