Gluten-Free Baked Spaghetti Casserole with Cottage Cheese
A hearty vegetarian pasta bake that transforms simple spaghetti into a satisfying casserole. Whisked eggs bind the noodles while layers of creamy cottage cheese and tangy marinara create rich comfort food flavors. The golden mozzarella top provides the perfect finish. This crowd-pleasing dish works well for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep when you want something filling without meat. The gluten-free noodles make it accessible while maintaining all the classic baked spaghetti appeal.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces gluten-free spaghetti noodles, cooked per box instructionsregular spaghetti1:1gluten-free
same dish with gluten
- 2 large eggs, whisked
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 16 ounces 2% cottage cheese
- 28 ounce marinara sauce
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350 degrees and prepare a 9x13 baking pan with cooking spray
- 2
Pour whisked eggs into cooked spaghetti in a large mixing bowl
- 3
Add shredded Parmesan, garlic, oregano, and parsley to spaghetti and eggs, mix well
- 4
Pour spaghetti mixture into prepared baking pan
- 5
Spread cottage cheese on top of the spaghetti layer
- 6
Top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese
- 7
Bake for 30 minutes or until set and cheese is golden brown
Tips
Cook spaghetti al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven and you want to avoid mushy pasta.
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
Use full-fat cottage cheese for creamier texture, or drain excess liquid from low-fat versions.
Good to Know
Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days
Assemble up to 1 day ahead, cover and refrigerate, then bake as directed
Serve hot directly from the baking pan
Common Mistakes
Don't skip draining pasta water completely to avoid watery casserole
Cover with foil if cheese browns too quickly during baking
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
same dish with gluten
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular spaghetti in the same amount. Cook according to package directions until al dente before mixing with eggs.
How long does this keep in the refrigerator?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 300 degree oven.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze assembled but unbaked for up to 2 months, or freeze baked portions for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before baking or reheating.