Elevate your pasta night with this High Protein Penne Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Cheese—a wholesome, flavor-packed dish that's perfect for fueling your day. Made with whole wheat penne and boosted by tender grilled chicken, this recipe is rich in protein and nutrients, featuring a vibrant tomato sauce enhanced with garlic, onions, and aromatic herbs like basil and oregano. Fresh spinach adds a touch of greens, while a luscious layer of melted Parmesan and mozzarella cheese brings the ultimate comfort factor. Ready in just 40 minutes, this easy baked pasta is ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors, it's a balanced and satisfying option for healthy indulgence.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
While the pasta is cooking, mince the garlic and finely chop the onion.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Meanwhile, cut the grilled chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
Once the sauce has thickened slightly, add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Add the cooked penne pasta and grilled chicken to the tomato sauce, stirring to coat the pasta and chicken thoroughly.
Preheat your oven broiler to high.
Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Top with the grated Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese.
Place the baking dish under the broiler for about 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Remove from the oven, and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your High Protein Penne Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Cheese as a hearty and nutritious meal.
Calories |
2224 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 79.7 g | 102% | |
| Saturated Fat | 27.1 g | 136% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 6.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 302 mg | 100% | |
| Sodium | 4671 mg | 203% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 236.7 g | 86% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 30.9 g | 110% | |
| Total Sugars | 37.1 g | ||
| Protein | 141.3 g | 283% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.4 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 1524 mg | 117% | |
| Iron | 17.3 mg | 96% | |
| Potassium | 3644 mg | 78% | |
*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.