Easy Meatball Pasta Bake

As seen in my article on @YorkRegion: RENATA’S TABLE: Dig in to this easy meatball pasta bake

Here is my version of this classic cheerful and comforting meal. Using uncooked pasta, it is easy and quick to put together, perfect for a busy weeknight or for a more laid-back weekend dish. Paired with a salad, this is a welcome and delicious dinner to serve when everyone is gathered to enjoy a hearty homemade dinner together.  Anytime of year, this Easy Meatball Pasta Bake is sure to become a favourite in your home!

Tomatoes are a superfood. They are anti-inflammatory, an antioxidant and support the immune system.  They contain lycopene that protects our cells from free radicals and damage. Tomatoes are a source of potassium, vitamins C, B and E, the latter two support heart health, and lutein and zeaxanthin that support eye health. 

Lentils are a protein and fibre-rich legume, containing B vitamins, zinc, potassium and magnesium. They are antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective to support brain health and support healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels. The fibre in lentils benefits digestion and supports gut and bowel health

Spinach is an extremely nutrient-rich vegetable, including potassium, magnesium, and vitamins B6, B9, E, C, K, high amounts of carotenoids (turns into vitamin A in the body), folic acid, iron, and calcium.

As always, when you make this recipe, I would love to see your creation so please post a photo of your Easy Meatball Pasta Bake goodness and tag my IG account #RenataCollective or leave a comment with your thoughts!

Prep Time: 10 minutes / Cook Time:  1 hour total / Servings: 4-6 depending on serving size    

Ingredients

  • 4 Cups / 410 gr Uncooked Rotini Pasta – alternate: penne or another pasta of similar size

  • 2½ Cups Pasta Sauce

  • 1 Cup Diced Tomatoes - optional

  • 2 Cups Chicken Broth – alternate: water

  • ½ Cup Coconut Cream or Coconut Milk – alternate: dairy cream or milk

  • 1 Tablespoon Dried Parsley

  • 1 teaspoon Each: Dried Basil, Oregano, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder

  • ½ teaspoon Chili Flakes - optional

  • 1 Lb Frozen Turkey Meatballs – alternate: beef meatballs

  • 1 Cup Canned Lentils

  • 2 Cups Fresh Baby Spinach – chopped

  • ½ Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese

  • 2 Cups Grated Mozzarella Cheese

  • A Generous Pinch of Sea Salt

  • Generous Grinds of Fresh Black Pepper

  • Sprinkle of Parmesan Cheese - when serving - optional

How It’s Made

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F.

  • Grease and sprinkle some garlic powder on a 9x13 baking dish.

  • Add to the pan: uncooked pasta, pasta sauce, diced tomatoes (if using), broth, coconut cream and the seasonings. Stir.

  • Add in the meatballs and the lentils, season with sea salt and grinds of fresh black pepper. Stir to mix everything together well.

  • Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

  • After 45 minutes, remove the foil and taste a piece of the pasta to check that it is cooked and a meatball to make sure it is soft and hot. If one or the either isn’t done, cover and cook for another 10 minutes.

  • Stir in the chopped spinach.

  • Sprinkle the parmesan cheese and then the mozzarella on top.

  • Bake, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and becoming browned on the edges and the sauce is bubbling.

  • Remove from the oven and serve with a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese and an extra grind of pepper.        

Enjoy!

Budget Friendly, Dinner, Egg Free, Family-Friendly, Healthy eating, Light Supper, LunchRenata RichardsonEasy Meatball Pasta Bake, antiinflammatory, Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, Immune support, heart health, Eye healthComment