Cheesy Tomato Pasta Bake Recipe

Name: Cheesy Tomato Pasta Bake
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: pasta: 125g; tomato sauce: 150g; shredded cheese: 40g; ground meat: 75g; vegetables: 50g; olive oil: 12g

pasta tomato sauce shredded cheese ground meat vegetables olive oil low lactose dinner

The Cheesy Tomato Pasta Bake is a delightful blend of tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese, all baked to perfection. This comforting dish can include various mix-ins like ground meat, onions, and bell peppers, making it a versatile meal that can easily be tailored to different dietary needs and preferences. Its satisfying taste and texture come from a combination of good-quality pasta, a flavorful tomato base, and the perfect amount of cheese, with optional meat and vegetables adding depth and nutrition.

🌎 Italian: Main Course

🔥 Calories 700kcal
🍗 Protein 25g
🍚 Carbs 90g
🧈 Fat 30g

🥗 Ingredients:

pasta (125g)
tomato sauce (150g)
shredded cheese (40g)
ground meat (75g)
vegetables (50g)
olive oil (12g)

🍳 How to cook (4 servings):

Cooking Time: 25 minutesPreperation Time: 20 minutes

Cook pasta

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until just al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the sauce

In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add ground meat (if using) and cook until browned. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, and sauté until softened. Stir in tomato sauce, season with herbs, salt, and pepper, and simmer for about 5 minutes.

Combine and bake

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, tomato sauce mixture, and half of the shredded cheese. Transfer to a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

⭐️ Nutrition facts:

This dish is a great source of carbohydrates, making it an ideal meal for energy replenishment. It also provides a good balance of protein, especially if meat is included, supporting muscle repair and growth. Additionally, the vegetables offer beneficial fibers and vitamins.