Pasta casserole is a classic comfort food that is not only delicious but also an excellent way to boost your health. By adding nutritious ingredients like vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grain pasta, you can create a meal that is satisfying and good for you. Here are a few nutritious pasta casserole recipes to help you elevate your health and satisfy your taste buds.
1. Veggie-packed pasta bake
Ingredients:
– Whole wheat pasta
– Broccoli
– Red bell pepper
– Zucchini
– Onion
– Garlic
– Marinara sauce
– Low-fat mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
– Cook the pasta according to the package instructions and set aside.
– Sautee the chopped onion and garlic in a pan until they are fragrant and translucent.
– Add in the chopped vegetables and cook until they are tender.
– In a casserole dish, layer the cooked pasta, vegetables, and marinara sauce.
– Top with shredded low-fat mozzarella cheese and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Chicken and spinach pasta casserole
Ingredients:
– Whole grain pasta
– Boneless, skinless chicken breast
– Fresh spinach
– Low-fat cream cheese
– Chicken broth
– Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
– Cook the pasta according to the package instructions and set aside.
– Cook the chicken breast in a pan until it is no longer pink in the middle, then shred or chop into small pieces.
– In a separate pan, wilt the fresh spinach and then add in the low-fat cream cheese and chicken broth, stirring until smooth.
– In a casserole dish, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and spinach mixture.
– Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and bake until heated through.
3. Lentil and sweet potato pasta bake
Ingredients:
– Lentil pasta
– Sweet potato
– Kale
– Red onion
– Garlic
– Tomato sauce
– Ricotta cheese
Instructions:
– Cook the lentil pasta according to the package instructions and set aside.
– Roast the sweet potato in the oven until it is tender and caramelized.
– Sautee the red onion and garlic in a pan until they are fragrant and soft, then add in the chopped kale and cook until wilted.
– In a casserole dish, layer the cooked lentil pasta, roasted sweet potato, sauteed kale and onion, and tomato sauce.
– Dot the top with spoonfuls of low-fat ricotta cheese and bake until bubbly and heated through.
These nutritious pasta casserole recipes are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. By choosing whole grain pasta, lean proteins, and plenty of vegetables, you can create a meal that supports your health and well-being. Give these recipes a try and enjoy a nourishing and satisfying meal that will leave you feeling great.
