Ingredients
Scale
- 1 box ziti pasta
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 3 cups marinara or tomato basil sauce
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil the Pasta – Cook your ziti pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until it is just al dente, then drain thoroughly.
- Step 2: Blend the Dairy Base – Take your cottage cheese and blend it briefly in a food processor for a smooth texture, or leave it chunky.
- Step 3: Mix the Filling – Combine the cooked ziti, blended cottage cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and marinara sauce in a large bowl.
- Step 4: Season to Perfection – Stir in garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and chopped fresh herbs.
- Step 5: Assemble the Casserole – Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Step 6: Top with Extra Cheese – Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated parmesan evenly across the top.
- Step 7: Bake and Serve – Bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbling and lightly browned.
Notes
You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freeze for up to two months before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 54 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
Keywords: baked ziti, cottage cheese pasta, comfort food, high protein pasta bake