Easy Protein Penne Rosa

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This recipe is a healthy twist on a classic dish that I’ve shared before. The creamy pink sauce in this Easy Protein Penne Rosa gets its rich and velvety texture from cottage cheese, which is swapped in for the traditional heavy whipping cream. This simple yet impactful change not only lightens the dish, making it lower in fat, but it also significantly boosts the protein content. This makes the tomato cream sauce more nutritious and satisfying.

By incorporating cottage cheese, you get all the creaminess and indulgence you expect from a pasta dish, but with added benefits. The higher protein content makes this version heartier without feeling heavy while still keeping that rich flavor. It’s a smart, wholesome alternative that feels indulgent but fits seamlessly into a healthier lifestyle. This recipe is perfect for quick and nutritious weeknight dinners! Plus, it’s a great option for anyone looking to sneak more protein into their meals without compromising on taste.

penne pasta topped with protein penne rosa sauce
  • PENNE NOODLES
  • GROUND BEEF
  • DICED ONION
  • MINCED GARLIC
  • MARINARA SAUCE
  • COTTAGE CHEESE
  • PARMESAN CHEESE, FOR GARNISH
cooked pene pasta covered with rosa  meat sauce

Cook penne pasta according to the package directions. Once done, drain and set aside.

While the pasta is cooking, heat a pot or a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground hamburger and chopped onion to the pan, browning them together until the meat is fully cooked and the onion is soft. Drain off any excess grease from the pan to keep the dish lighter. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release the garlic’s flavor.

In a blender, combine your favorite bottled marinara sauce and cottage cheese. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step replaces heavy cream with protein-rich cottage cheese, giving the sauce a healthy twist without sacrificing creaminess.

Pour the blended creamy tomato sauce mixture into the skillet with the cooked beef and onion. Stir well to combine, making sure the sauce coats the meat evenly. Allow the mixture to warm through over low to medium heat until it’s heated thoroughly.

Spoon the creamy, protein-packed rosa sauce over the cooked al dente penne pasta. Top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. This dish serves 6 and is perfect for a quick, nutritious weeknight dinner! Enjoy this healthier take on Penne Rosa with the same rich, creamy texture but added protein to fuel your family!

easy protein pennee rosa made in 30 minutes

Can I substitute the cottage cheese with something else?
Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese with Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese for a similar creamy texture. However, cottage cheese offers a higher protein content, which makes it ideal for this healthier version.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta for this recipe. Whole wheat, gluten-free, or even chickpea pasta are great alternatives to increase the nutritional value while keeping it delicious.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, adding vegetables like fresh baby spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms works well with this recipe. Simply sauté them with the ground beef or mix them in with the sauce for added nutrients and flavor.

How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover Protein Penne Rosa in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Store them separately in airtight storage containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and pasta, combining them just before serving.

What can I do to add a little kick to the sauce?
Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes while cooking the sauce or as a garnish to add heat without altering the flavor.

penne rosa sauce made with cottage cheese

Easy Protein Penne Rosa

Real Mom Kitchen

The Easy Protein Penne Rosa recipe is a healthier twist on the classic dish, using cottage cheese instead of heavy cream to create a creamy, protein-packed sauce. Ground beef and a flavorful marinara sauce blend seamlessly with the cottage cheese, offering a satisfying, rich dish that is still light on calories.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Dish, Pasta
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 524 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz pkg penne pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • ¼ cup diced onion
  • ½ tsp minced garlic
  • 28 oz jar marinara sauce
  • ½ cup cottage cheese
  • parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Cook pasta according to pacakge directions.
  • In the meantime, in a large pot or deep skillet, brown your hamburger and onion until fully cooked. Drain off grease. Mix in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  • In a blender, add the marinara sauce and cottage cheese and blend until smooth. Add the sauce mixute to the skillet with the beef and combine well. Warm until heated through.
  • Serve sauce over the cooked penne and garnish with Parmesan cheese. Serves 6.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 524kcal | Carbohydrates: 65g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 57mg | Sodium: 738mg | Potassium: 795mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 598IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 65mg | Iron: 4mg
Keyword pasta
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