Description
This High Protein Italian Beef and Pasta Bake is a hearty, comforting dish made with tender pasta, savory seasoned beef, rich marinara sauce, and a generous layer of melted cheese. It’s filling, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces dry short pasta (cavatappi or penne)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Cook the pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until softened.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the beef sauce and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Slightly undercook the pasta so it finishes perfectly in the oven.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- This dish reheats well and is great for meal prep.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg