Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for a healthy diet? Look no further! Baked pasta dishes are a great way to enjoy your favorite comfort foods while also promoting weight loss. By using whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of vegetables, these 18 delicious baked pasta recipes will help you reach your health and wellness goals without feeling deprived.
From classic mac and cheese to Mediterranean-inspired eggplant parmesan, there’s something on this list for everyone. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for quick and easy meals or a fitness enthusiast seeking healthy inspiration, these weight-loss friendly baked pasta recipes are sure to please.
Whole Wheat Spinach and Ricotta Baked Ziti
Whole Wheat Spinach and Ricotta Baked Ziti Recipe
A classic Italian-American dish gets a nutritious twist with this whole wheat ziti recipe, packed with spinach and ricotta cheese for added flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound whole wheat ziti
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 12 oz container ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook whole wheat ziti according to package instructions.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
5. Combine cooked ziti and spinach-ricotta mixture in the baking dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with additional shredded mozzarella cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa and Kale Baked Mac and Cheese
This creamy comfort food gets a boost of nutrition from the addition of quinoa and kale. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 cups macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add kale and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
5. Combine cooked quinoa, macaroni, kale mixture, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream in a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until top is golden brown and mac and cheese is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Lentil and Mushroom Baked Pasta
Rich and comforting, this vegan pasta dish combines the earthy flavors of lentils and mushrooms with a creamy baked sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup vegan tomato sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz vegan pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional, for cheesy flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and mushrooms in olive oil until tender.
4. Add lentils, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the lentil mixture and transfer to a baking dish.
6. Top with nutritional yeast (if using) and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low-Carb Zucchini Noodle Lasagna
Low-Carb Zucchini Noodle Lasagna Recipe: A Creative Twist on Classic Italian Cuisine
Replace traditional lasagna noodles with zucchini noodles and enjoy a delicious, low-carb twist on this classic Italian dish. This recipe is perfect for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 3 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Spiralize zucchinis into noodle-like strands.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef or turkey until browned, then add onion and garlic. Cook until softened.
4. Stir in marinara sauce and season with salt and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Assemble lasagna by layering zucchini noodles, meat sauce, and cheese mixture. Top with additional mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Gluten-Free Chickpea Pasta Bake
This recipe transforms traditional pasta bakes into a gluten-free, protein-packed meal by substituting pasta with chickpeas. The result is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup gluten-free tomato sauce
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese (dairy or vegan alternative)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (dairy or vegan alternative)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked chickpeas, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Vegetable and Goat Cheese Baked Penne
Roasted Vegetable and Goat Cheese Baked Penne: A hearty, flavorful pasta dish that combines the richness of goat cheese with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the roasted vegetables, crumbled goat cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked penne pasta to the bowl and toss to combine with the vegetable mixture.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey Meatball and Whole Grain Spaghetti Bake
A hearty and satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of Italy with a nutritious twist. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 12 oz whole grain spaghetti
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Form meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, combine crushed tomatoes and baked meatballs. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
6. In a large casserole dish, combine cooked spaghetti, tomato-meatball mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-55 minutes
Cauliflower Alfredo Baked Pasta
A comforting twist on classic pasta, this recipe combines the richness of alfredo sauce with the subtle sweetness of roasted cauliflower. Perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, alfredo sauce, and roasted cauliflower. Mix well to combine.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mediterranean Eggplant and Tomato Baked Rigatoni
A flavorful and colorful twist on classic pasta bakes, this Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the richness of eggplant and tomatoes with the comfort of rigatoni.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup rigatoni pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add eggplant and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side.
4. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add tomatoes to the skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
6. Combine cooked rigatoni with eggplant mixture and sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pumpkin and Sage Whole Wheat Baked Fusilli
This fall-inspired recipe combines the warmth of pumpkin with the earthy flavor of sage, all wrapped up in a nutritious whole wheat baked fusilli. Perfect as a main course or as a side dish, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz whole wheat fusilli
– 1 medium pumpkin, cooked and mashed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp fresh sage leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the fusilli according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the mashed pumpkin, chopped sage, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the mixture is heated through.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked fusilli, pumpkin mixture, and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli and Cheddar Baked Orzo
This comforting side dish combines the nutty flavor of orzo with the brightness of broccoli and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 3 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium broccoli crown, chopped
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions with 3 cups of water.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Add cooked garlic and mix well.
5. Combine cooked orzo, broccoli mixture, and cheese sauce in a baking dish. Toss to coat.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until top is golden brown and orzo is creamy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti Squash and Marinara Baked Casserole
A creative twist on traditional pasta bakes, this casserole combines the natural sweetness of spaghetti squash with the savory flavors of marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium spaghetti squash
– 1 jar marinara sauce (28 oz)
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place cut-side up on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the squash, season with salt and pepper, and roast for 30 minutes or until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, combine marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
5. Stuff each squash half with the marinara-ricotta mixture, dividing it evenly.
6. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top of each squash half.
7. Bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Whole Wheat Linguine Bake
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic shrimp pasta bake, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With the combination of succulent shrimp, tangy lemon sauce, and whole wheat linguine, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz whole wheat linguine pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and shrimp in olive oil until pink and cooked through.
4. Add lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked linguine and shrimp mixture in a baking dish. Toss to coat.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the shrimp are heated through and the pasta is slightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Baked Farfalle
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious Spinach and Artichoke Baked Farfalle recipe. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup cream
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add cooked farfalle pasta to the mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Bell Pepper Baked Rotini
A delicious and easy-to-make casserole that combines the flavors of chicken, bell peppers, and pasta in a creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 8 oz rotini pasta
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, bell peppers, and onion in olive oil until cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Baked Pasta
Transform traditional pasta into a flavorful and nutritious meal with the combination of roasted sweet potatoes and black beans. This baked pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a healthy alternative to traditional comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the sweet potatoes for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add black beans and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, roasted sweet potatoes, and black bean mixture in a baking dish.
6. Top with marinara sauce and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Yogurt and Herb Baked Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful Greek yogurt-based sauce infused with fresh herbs, baked to perfection in shells. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo shells
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together yogurt, olive oil, onion, garlic, parsley, and dill.
4. Stuff each shell with the yogurt mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the shells.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado Pesto and Whole Grain Spaghetti Bake
Combine the richness of avocado with the simplicity of spaghetti for a satisfying weeknight meal. This comforting casserole is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz whole grain spaghetti
– 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, avocado pesto, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the world of healthy baked pasta recipes! This article features 18 mouth-watering dishes that are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and perfect for weight loss. From classic mac and cheese to innovative quinoa and kale twists, these recipes cater to various dietary needs, including vegan, gluten-free, and low-carb options. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just looking for healthy meal ideas, this collection has something for everyone. So go ahead, get baking, and enjoy the journey to a healthier, happier you!
