Looking for a healthy, high-protein twist on your go-to pasta dinner? This baked ziti with cottage cheese and spinach recipe is a total game-changer for busy weeknights. With creamy cottage cheese, fresh spinach, rich marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella, it offers that baked ziti comfort—with fewer carbs and more protein. Whether you’re feeding the family or prepping meals for the week, this one-pan pasta bake packs in big flavor with minimal effort.
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Why Baked Ziti with Cottage Cheese and Spinach Is a Must-Try Weeknight Dinner
A Protein-Packed Pasta Bake That Doesn’t Sacrifice Comfort
I’ve always had a soft spot for baked pasta, but traditional recipes felt too heavy. Swapping ricotta for cottage cheese changed everything. Not only is baked ziti with cottage cheese and spinach lighter, but it also adds up to more protein, fewer calories, and a creamy texture that feels indulgent without being overly rich.
This particular baked ziti with cottage cheese and spinach recipe is a high-protein favorite in my kitchen. The cottage cheese blends smoothly into the marinara, while spinach adds freshness and fiber. Toss in cooked chicken or lean beef, and it becomes a complete meal that satisfies both cravings and macros.
Already love recipes like our cottage cheese baked ziti or chicken parmesan with cottage cheese? You’ll find this ziti equally comforting—and packed with the same balance of flavor and nutrition.
Spinach, Sauce, and Cottage Cheese in One Balanced Dish
What makes this baked ziti with cottage cheese and spinach truly special is its simplicity. The spinach cooks right in the sauce, the cottage cheese melts into creamy pockets, and a final layer of mozzarella and Parmesan seals in the flavor.
It’s one of those meals that works for everyone: high-protein eaters, low-carb seekers, or anyone who loves cheesy pasta. And because baked ziti with cottage cheese and spinach freezes and reheats beautifully, it’s a smart choice for busy schedules and make-ahead dinners.
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baked ziti with cottage cheese and spinach
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This baked ziti with cottage cheese and spinach is a high-protein, family-friendly dinner packed with creamy flavor and ready for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
8 ounces pasta (dry weight)
2 ½ cups pasta sauce (low sodium/sugar preferred)
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 ½ cups cottage cheese (full-fat, low-fat, or fat-free)
10 ounces cooked protein (ground turkey, beef, chicken, or vegetarian)
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 large whole egg
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
2 tsp minced garlic
Black pepper (to taste)
3 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
2. In a large bowl, combine pasta, spinach, cottage cheese, marinara sauce, cooked protein, egg, garlic, and seasoning.
3. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish.
4. Top evenly with mozzarella and grated parmesan.
5. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
6. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
7. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use low-fat cottage cheese and lean ground meat for a lighter version.
Freezes well: store in airtight container up to 3 months.
Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Ingredients & Tips for Baked Ziti with Cottage Cheese and Spinach
Ingredient Breakdown for High-Protein Baked Ziti
To make the perfect baked ziti with cottage cheese and spinach, you’ll need just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients:
- 8 ounces dry pasta – Ziti or penne work best. Opt for whole wheat or protein-enriched pasta for extra nutrients.
- 2½ cups pasta sauce – Choose a low-sodium, low-sugar marinara to keep it light but flavorful.
- 2 cups fresh spinach – Roughly chopped; baby spinach works well and wilts easily into the sauce.
- 1½ cups cottage cheese – Full-fat for richness, or fat-free for a leaner version; cottage cheese is the creamy star here.
- 10 ounces cooked protein – Ground turkey, beef, or shredded chicken are great high-protein choices.
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella – Adds that classic cheesy top layer.
- 1 large egg – Helps bind the cheese mixture and adds structure.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – For that authentic herbaceous flavor.
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic – Boosts depth and aroma.
- Black pepper – Add to taste.
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan – For extra savory, salty notes and that golden crust.
Together, these ingredients form a well-balanced baked ziti with cottage cheese and spinach that’s creamy, cheesy, and protein-rich.
Time-Saving & Flavor Tips
- Don’t skip the egg – It’s essential for binding the cottage cheese and preventing sogginess.
- Pre-cook your pasta al dente – Slightly firm pasta holds up better during baking and won’t turn mushy.
- Mix spinach into the sauce – This ensures even distribution and saves you from another sauté pan.
- Add protein smartly – If using lean ground turkey or beef, season it with garlic and Italian herbs during cooking to deepen the flavor of your baked ziti with cottage cheese and spinach.
- Use foil during baking – Cover for the first 20 minutes, then remove it for a golden, bubbly top.
- Meal prep tip – Assemble everything in advance and store in the fridge up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze for up to 2 months.
This combination of convenience and flavor makes this dish a weekly staple—especially when you’re juggling weeknight dinners or prepping in bulk.
How to Make Baked Ziti with Cottage Cheese and Spinach
Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Pasta Bake
Making baked ziti with cottage cheese and spinach is easier than you might think. It all comes together in a few basic steps—and the results are rich, cheesy, and packed with protein.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
This ensures your ziti bakes evenly and gets that golden, bubbly top. - Boil the pasta.
Cook 8 ounces of ziti until al dente (about 2 minutes less than the package recommends). Drain and set aside. - Sauté garlic (optional).
If you like a deeper garlic flavor, lightly sauté 2 teaspoons of minced garlic in olive oil before adding it to the mix. - Mix the cottage cheese filling.
In a large mixing bowl, stir together 1½ cups cottage cheese, 1 large egg, 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan. The egg acts as a binder, while the Parmesan brings a rich, savory boost of flavor. - Combine spinach and sauce.
Mix 2 cups of chopped fresh spinach into 2½ cups of pasta sauce, folding it in evenly. The spinach will wilt in the oven and blend perfectly into the marinara. - Layer the ingredients.
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a little of the spinach marinara at the bottom. Layer in half of the pasta, followed by half of the cottage cheese mixture, half of the cooked protein (such as ground turkey or chicken), and a generous layer of mozzarella. Keep layering the ingredients, making sure to end with a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. - Cover and bake.
Wrap the dish in aluminum foil and place it in the oven to bake for 20 minutes. Then, take off the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the top turns golden and starts bubbling. - Let it rest.
Remove the baked ziti with cottage cheese and spinach from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set properly. This resting time helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips
- Place any remaining leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- To freeze: Put the dish together, wrap it securely, and freeze before baking. When ready to use, bake from frozen at 350°F for 45–50 minutes, covered.
- To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm them in an oven-safe dish at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through.
This easy recipe is just as delicious on day two—and makes a great meal prep option if you’re cooking in batches.
Explore our Medium blog for more fast, high-protein recipes and practical cooking tips.
Health Benefits & Storage Tips for Baked Ziti with Cottage Cheese and Spinach
Nutritional Perks of a High-Protein Pasta Bake
One of the best things about this baked ziti with cottage cheese and spinach is that it’s more than just comfort food—it’s a smart, balanced meal.
By replacing traditional ricotta or heavy cream with cottage cheese, you significantly reduce the fat while boosting your protein intake. One cup of cottage cheese packs over 25g of protein and offers key nutrients like calcium, B vitamins, and selenium. According to Medical News Today, cottage cheese may support muscle growth, heart health, and bone density—making it an ideal ingredient in your weeknight meals.
Spinach, on the other hand, adds fiber, iron, folate, and magnesium—all while enhancing the dish’s volume and nutrition without adding many calories. Paired with lean protein like ground turkey or chicken, this baked ziti with cottage cheese and spinach becomes a well-rounded dinner that nourishes and satisfies.
Meal Prep & Leftover-Friendly
This recipe isn’t just healthy—it’s also practical. If you’re into weekly meal prep or want to stock the freezer for later, this dish covers all the bases.
- Meal prep ready: You can fully assemble your baked ziti with cottage cheese and spinach the day before. Just cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Freezer-friendly: Wrap tightly in foil or store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, bake from frozen—just extend the cook time slightly.
- Reheats like a dream: Individual portions warm up perfectly in the microwave or oven, maintaining flavor and texture. Before reheating, add a splash of marinara sauce to help maintain moisture.
This recipe is the perfect solution for busy households. Whether you’re packing lunch or planning a no-stress dinner, this high-protein pasta bake delivers on both taste and nutrition—again and again.
Searching for more nutritious, high-protein dinner ideas? Follow us on Pinterest for fresh recipe inspiration every day!
FAQs About Baked Ziti with Cottage Cheese and Spinach
Can you use cottage cheese instead of ricotta in baked ziti?
Absolutely! Cottage cheese is a well-known alternative to ricotta in baked ziti, providing a creamier and lighter texture while also being lower in calories and higher in protein. In fact, this baked ziti with cottage cheese and spinach proves you don’t need ricotta to enjoy that signature creamy bite.
Is baked ziti with cottage cheese healthy?
Yes, this version is a healthier take on traditional baked pasta. Cottage cheese reduces fat content while boosting protein. The added spinach increases fiber, vitamins, and minerals—making this dish a smart, nutrient-rich meal for weeknights or meal prep.
Does cottage cheese melt when baked?
Cottage cheese doesn’t melt like mozzarella, but it softens into a creamy texture during baking. When combined with marinara and layered into pasta, it creates a rich, smooth consistency that’s ideal for our baked ziti with cottage cheese and spinach recipe.
Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours ahead of time. Simply cover it and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. That’s one reason why baked ziti with cottage cheese and spinach is ideal for busy weeknights or family meal prep.
Can I freeze baked ziti with cottage cheese?
Absolutely. Once assembled, tightly cover the unbaked dish with foil and freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready, bake from frozen at 350°F for 45–50 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. You can also freeze already-baked portions in meal-prep containers for fast lunches.
What protein goes well with baked ziti and spinach?
Ground turkey, lean beef, shredded chicken, or plant-based crumbles all make excellent pairings. This recipe includes 10 ounces of cooked protein for a balanced meal, but you can easily swap it based on preference.
What are some alternatives to ricotta cheese for baked ziti?
Besides cottage cheese, you could use Greek yogurt, blended tofu, or a mix of cream cheese and Greek yogurt. Cottage cheese remains the top choice for its high protein and creamy, light finish.
What’s the best way to prevent baked ziti from drying out?
Two tips: First, don’t overcook the pasta before baking—al dente is best. Second, keep the ziti covered with foil for the first half of baking to lock in moisture. Using cottage cheese also helps retain a creamy texture throughout.
Why Baked Ziti with Cottage Cheese and Spinach Deserves a Spot in Your Weekly Dinner Lineup
When you want comfort food that supports your health goals, baked ziti with cottage cheese and spinach checks every box. It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor—but light enough to enjoy any night of the week. Swapping traditional ricotta for high-protein cottage cheese gives this dish a nutritious upgrade without sacrificing texture or satisfaction.
You get fiber and nutrients from spinach, complete protein from your choice of meat, and slow-digesting carbs from the pasta. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping, or freezing leftovers, this baked ziti is both practical and crave-worthy.
If you’ve already tried favorites like Protein Cheesy Chicken Bake or Chicken Parmesan with Cottage Cheese, this pasta bake is the next recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat. It’s weeknight-friendly, family-approved, and ready to fuel your day with wholesome ingredients and bold, balanced flavor.