High Protein Baked Feta Pasta with Hidden Veggies (Creamy, Easy & Healthy)

Why You’ll Love High Protein Baked Feta Pasta with Hidden Veggies  Recipe

This recipe combines the comforting flavors of baked feta pasta with added nutritional value. It’s packed with protein, thanks to the combination of cottage cheese and high-protein pasta or feta, while roasted vegetables add flavor, fiber, and hidden nutrients. The best part? Everything comes together easily in one baking dish and a blender, making cleanup quick and simple. Whether you’re trying to sneak more veggies into your meals or want a protein-rich vegetarian option, this recipe delivers big on taste and texture.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

feta cheese block (around 200g)
cherry tomatoes (about 500g)
1 large red capsicum
1 whole head of garlic
olive oil
salt
pepper
mixed Italian herbs
chilli flakes
cottage cheese (around 150g, preferably high-protein and low-fat)
dried pasta (300g; rigatoni or another short variety works well)
fresh parsley or basil for garnish
parmesan cheese for topping

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan-forced).

2. In a large baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, the whole red capsicum (cut into chunks), the block of feta, and the trimmed head of garlic.

3. Drizzle everything with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, mixed Italian herbs, and chilli flakes.

4. Bake for 40–45 minutes until the tomatoes burst, the capsicum is tender, and the feta is golden and soft.

5. Meanwhile, cook your pasta according to package directions. Reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining.

6. Once the baking is complete, remove the garlic from its skin and transfer all the contents of the baking dish to a blender.

7. Add cottage cheese and the reserved pasta water to the blender and blend until smooth and creamy.

8. Pour the sauce over the cooked pasta and toss to combine. Add more pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.

9. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs and grated parmesan.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 8 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: approximately 53 minutes

Variations

• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for an even higher protein meal.
• Use whole wheat or legume-based pasta for more fiber and nutrients.
• Swap in other veggies like zucchini, carrots, or spinach to change up the flavor and boost nutrition.
• For a spicy kick, increase the chilli flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Make it dairy-free with plant-based feta and cottage cheese alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• To freeze, place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce and restore its creaminess.

FAQs

What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?

Short pastas like rigatoni, penne, or fusilli work best as they hold the creamy sauce well.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the feta and cottage cheese with dairy-free versions to make it vegan-friendly.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, kids typically enjoy the creamy texture, and the vegetables are blended into the sauce so they’re barely noticeable.

How can I add more protein?

Add cooked chicken, turkey, tofu, or even a scoop of unflavored protein powder blended into the sauce.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can bake the vegetables and feta ahead of time and blend the sauce later. Cook the pasta just before serving.

What does the cottage cheese add to the recipe?

Cottage cheese adds creaminess and a major protein boost without a strong flavor.

Can I use roasted garlic from a jar?

Fresh roasted garlic adds the best flavor, but pre-roasted garlic can be used in a pinch.

How do I keep the sauce from becoming too thick when reheating?

Add a splash of water, milk, or pasta water when reheating to loosen the sauce.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free pasta. The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free.

Will this work with other types of cheese?

Yes, goat cheese or cream cheese can be used instead of feta, though the flavor and tanginess will differ.

Conclusion

This high protein baked feta pasta with hidden veggies is an easy, healthy, and delicious meal you’ll want to make again and again. It’s rich and comforting while sneaking in wholesome ingredients and boosting your protein intake. Ideal for families, meal prep, or quick weeknight dinners, this dish is a flavorful way to eat well without sacrificing the joy of a creamy, satisfying pasta bowl.