Cottage Cheese Baked Ziti

Ingredients

• 12 ounces ziti or penne pasta
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups homemade marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Then add the zucchini, bell pepper, and spinach. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg (if using). Mix until well blended, adding salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the sautéed vegetables and marinara sauce. Stir until well coated.
6. In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture on the bottom. Layer half of the cheese mixture on top. Repeat with the remaining pasta and cheese mixtures.
7. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Let cool for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Nutrition