High Protein Baked Penne Pasta

Elevate your pasta night with this hearty, High Protein Baked Penne Pasta, a perfect fusion of nourishing ingredients and robust flavors! Featuring tender whole wheat penne coated in a rich, savory tomato sauce, this recipe packs a protein punch with extra firm tofu and juicy chicken breast. Wilted baby spinach adds a vibrant layer of nutrition, while gooey mozzarella and a golden Parmesan crust deliver indulgent cheesy goodness. With a quick prep time of just 20 minutes and the satisfying comfort of a baked casserole, this dish is ideal for meal prep or family dinners. Balanced and flavorful, it’s a nutritious twist on classic baked pasta that’s sure to become a favorite. Perfect for those seeking high-protein meal ideas!

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 300 grams whole wheat penne pasta
• 200 grams extra firm tofu
• 250 grams chicken breast
• 100 grams baby spinach
• 400 grams canned crushed tomatoes
• 150 grams mozzarella cheese
• 50 grams Parmesan cheese
• 1 medium red onion
• 3 units garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon mixed Italian herbs
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon salt

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Step 2

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 4

Dice the chicken breast into small cubes. Add them to the skillet, cooking until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed, then add diced red onion and minced garlic cloves. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Step 6

Crumble the extra firm tofu into small pieces and add to the skillet along with the cooked chicken. Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes, mixed Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 7

Add the baby spinach to the skillet and let it wilt for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 8

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the sauce from the skillet. Mix until the pasta is well-coated.

Step 9

Transfer the pasta mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Step 10

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

Step 11

After 20 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Return to the oven to bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.

Step 12

Remove from oven and let the baked penne pasta rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your high protein baked penne pasta!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1621.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2805.7

Total Fat 105.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 35.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.0g
Cholesterol 357.0mg	0%
Sodium 3983.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 270.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 38.0g	0%
Total Sugars 36.8g
Protein 200.1g	0%

Vitamin D 24IU	0%
Calcium 3242.0mg	0%
Iron 24.0mg	0%
Potassium 4222.9mg	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: 33.6%

Protein: 28.2%

Carbs: 38.2%