Name: Spinach Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz farfalle pasta; 2 cups cottage cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

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Introduction

This Spinach Cottage Cheese Pasta Bake is a comforting and nutritious dish that combines tender pasta with creamy cheeses and fresh spinach. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a simple family dinner. Baked until golden and bubbly, it’s sure to become a favorite.

A white square baking dish is filled with a baked pasta casserole featuring bowtie-shaped pasta. The top layer is golden-orange melted cheese with some brown crispy edges, sprinkled with white grated cheese. Green spinach leaves are mixed throughout, adding contrast and texture. The pasta pieces are coated in a rich, cheesy sauce and are slightly browned on the edges from baking. The dish rests on a white marbled surface with some grated cheese scattered around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 oz farfalle pasta
2 cups cottage cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Step 3: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and stir until evenly coated.
Step 4: Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Step 5: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the dish is bubbly.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving hot.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
Try substituting spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different green twist.
Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrition.
Top with extra mozzarella or breadcrumbs before baking for a crispier surface.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the texture will be best when reheated in the oven.

How to Serve

The dish is a baked pasta casserole in a white rectangular baking dish. The top layer shows golden-brown bowtie pasta mixed with melted cheese that has light browned spots and a slightly crispy texture along the edges. There are visible dark green spinach leaves scattered throughout the pasta, adding contrast to the yellow-orange pasta and cheese. The surface is sprinkled evenly with white grated cheese, giving a slightly grainy texture on top. The edges of the pasta near the baking dish have a more toasted look with some crispy bits. The dish sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before mixing it into the cheese mixture to avoid a watery bake.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

This pasta bake can be frozen before baking. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.