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High-Protein Pizza Pasta Bake
Pizza meets meal prep in this High-Protein Pizza Pasta Bake. Protein pasta, lean ground turkey or beef, marinara, mozzarella and turkey pepperoni come together for a cheesy, satisfying meal with approximately 45–50 grams of protein per serving.
Ingredients – Makes 6 Servings
- 12 oz high-protein pasta, such as chickpea, lentil or protein-enriched pasta
- 1 lb 93% lean ground turkey or lean ground beef
- 24 oz lower-sugar marinara sauce
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives, optional
- 1 1/2 cups part-skim shredded mozzarella
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 24–30 slices turkey pepperoni
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Prepare according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the protein: Brown the ground turkey or lean beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add vegetables and sauce: Add bell pepper and mushrooms and cook until slightly softened. Stir in marinara, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
- Combine: Stir in cooked pasta, optional olives, most of the mozzarella and Parmesan until evenly combined.
- Assemble: Transfer to a baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and turkey pepperoni.
- Bake: Bake at 375°F for approximately 20–25 minutes until hot, bubbly and lightly browned. Rest for 5 minutes before portioning.
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving
Approximately 480–550 calories, 45–50g protein, 45–55g carbohydrates and 12–17g fat per serving. Exact nutrition varies by pasta, meat, cheese, sauce and portion sizes.
Meal Prep & Storage
Cool before dividing into airtight meal-prep containers. Refrigerate for up to 4–5 days and reheat until hot throughout. Individual portions can also be frozen for longer storage.
Easy Variations
- Add spinach, zucchini or broccoli for extra vegetables.
- Use lean ground chicken instead of turkey or beef.
- Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Swap turkey pepperoni for cooked chicken.
- Blend cottage cheese into the sauce for additional creaminess and protein.
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