Description
This delicious, protein-packed spaghetti casserole is a comforting yet nutritious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. Made with high-protein spaghetti, lean ground turkey (or beef), and a creamy cheese layer, it’s rich in flavor and satisfaction. Whether you’re looking to boost your protein intake or simply enjoy a hearty dish, this casserole delivers!
Ingredients
Scale
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Base:
- 8 oz high-protein spaghetti (chickpea, lentil, or whole wheat)
- 1 lb lean ground turkey or lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp olive oil
Sauce:
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Protein Boosters & Toppings:
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Cook Spaghetti:
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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Brown the Meat:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground turkey (or beef), onion, and garlic. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
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Make the Sauce:
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
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Mix the Filling:
- In a bowl, combine cottage cheese (or ricotta), Greek yogurt, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
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Assemble the Casserole:
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti, half of the meat sauce, and half of the cheese mixture. Repeat layers.
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Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
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Bake:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
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Garnish & Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley (if using) and serve hot.
Notes
- Use chickpea or lentil spaghetti for a gluten-free option.
- For extra veggies, stir in spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers into the meat sauce.
- Substitute ground turkey with chicken sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Make-ahead tip: Prepare the casserole up to the assembly step and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/6 of the casserole)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 75mg