Description
This High Protein Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty and nutritious twist on a classic comfort food! Packed with lean ground turkey, cottage cheese, and whole wheat spaghetti, this casserole is a protein powerhouse that’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or any night you need a filling, delicious dish. With rich tomato sauce and melted cheese, it’s a satisfying and healthy alternative to traditional pasta casseroles.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti (or any high-protein pasta)
- 1 lb ground turkey or chicken (lean)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (no added sugar)
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti:
Cook the whole wheat spaghetti according to the package directions. Drain and set aside. - Cook the Ground Turkey:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. - Make the Sauce:
Add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet with the ground turkey. Stir in oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. - Assemble the Casserole:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well. Add the turkey and tomato sauce mixture to the bowl and stir until evenly combined. - Bake the Casserole:
Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Serve:
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra protein, you can add cooked chicken breast, lean beef, or tofu to the casserole.
- To make it a vegetarian option, replace the ground turkey with a plant-based protein like lentils or tempeh.
- You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 65mg