Homemade Protein Pasta Bake
Enjoy a nutritious and satisfying meal with this Homemade Protein Pasta Bake, packed with protein-rich ingredients and vibrant vegetables, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. This American-style dish combines whole-wheat pasta, lean ground turkey, and a medley of fresh veggies, all topped with a creamy cheese blend for a delightful, healthy twist on a classic comfort food.
🛒Ingredients
- 12 oz whole-wheat penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup low-fat ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
🔧Kitchen Tools Needed
- Large skillet
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Whisk
- Spoon
📝Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2
Cook the whole-wheat penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 3
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
- 5
Stir in the red bell pepper, zucchini, and spinach. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- 6
Season the mixture with oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the marinara sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes.
- 7
In a small bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese and egg until smooth.
- 8
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, turkey mixture, and ricotta mixture. Mix until well incorporated.
- 9
Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- 10
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- 11
Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
🥗Nutrition Information
⚡Calories per serving: 480
🏷️Recipe Tags
❓Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute whole-wheat penne with any pasta of your choice, such as rotini or rigatoni, but the nutritional content may vary.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta bake up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it when you're ready to serve.
