Heart-Healthy Cheesy Comfort Casserole

Indulge in the ultimate guilt-free comfort food with our Heart-Healthy Cheesy Comfort Casserole—proof that wholesome can also be delicious. This recipe combines the cozy flavors of cheesy pasta with nutrient-packed ingredients like whole grain penne, lean shredded chicken, and vibrant baby spinach. Low-fat ricotta and mozzarella lend creaminess without the extra calories, while zesty garlic, basil, and oregano deliver an aromatic punch. Finished with a bubbly golden parmesan topping, this casserole is baked to perfection in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish makes six hearty servings and is a nutritious twist on classic comfort food. Treat your family to a satisfying yet heart-smart dinner that they’ll love!

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 8 ounces whole grain penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 units garlic cloves, minced
• 5 cups baby spinach leaves
• 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes, low sodium
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
• 1 cup low-fat ricotta cheese
• 1 cup low-fat mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 0.25 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2

Cook the whole grain penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Add the spinach leaves to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 6

Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 7

Combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and the tomato-spinach mixture in a large bowl.

Step 8

Stir in the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and half of the parmesan cheese.

Step 9

Add the chopped basil, dried oregano, and black pepper. Mix everything until well combined.

Step 10

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.

Step 11

Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese on top.

Step 12

Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

Step 13

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 14

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your heart-healthy meal!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1784.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2601.5

Total Fat 81.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 36.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.3g
Cholesterol 579.8mg	0%
Sodium 1786.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 215.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 27.2g	0%
Total Sugars 26.2g
Protein 251.8g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 2084.9mg	0%
Iron 22.8mg	0%
Potassium 3704.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 28.2%

Protein: 38.7%

Carbs: 33.1%