high protein baked pasta with chicken for college students on a budget
College life can be both exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to managing your finances and eating healthy. With a busy schedule packed with classes, study sessions, and social events, it’s easy to fall into the trap of fast food or instant ramen. But eating well doesn’t have to break the bank! This high protein baked pasta with chicken is perfect for college students on a budget, offering a delicious, filling, and nutritious meal that you can prepare in advance and enjoy throughout the week.
This dish combines protein-rich chicken, hearty pasta, and a variety of colorful vegetables, all baked together in a creamy sauce that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Not only is it affordable, but it’s also simple to make, making it the ideal recipe for busy students. Let’s dive into the details of this easy, budget-friendly meal!
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup spinach, chopped (fresh or frozen)
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coating of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, spinach, bell pepper, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top for added flavor.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your high protein baked pasta with chicken!
Why This Recipe Works for College Students
As a college student, juggling academics and social life can be overwhelming. This high protein baked pasta with chicken is not only delicious but also an economical choice. Let’s look at some reasons why this recipe is perfect for students.
Budget-Friendly Ingredients
Most of the ingredients in this recipe can be found at your local grocery store, often at a reasonable price. Pasta, chicken, and basic vegetables are all affordable staples that can be purchased in bulk or on sale. This makes it easy to feed yourself and your friends without spending a fortune.
High in Protein
Protein is essential for maintaining energy levels, especially during busy study weeks. This baked pasta offers a generous amount of protein from the chicken and cheese, helping to keep you full and satisfied.
Meal Prep Made Easy
This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store individual portions in the fridge or freezer. This way, you always have a nutritious meal ready to go, saving you time on busy days.
Customizable to Your Taste
If you have specific dietary preferences or just want to switch things up, this recipe is highly adaptable. You can easily substitute the chicken for turkey, tofu, or even leave it out altogether. You can also add in any vegetables you have on hand, like zucchini or broccoli, to increase the nutritional value.
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from this high protein baked pasta with chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
FAQ
Can I use whole grain or gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain or gluten-free pasta can be used in this recipe without any issues. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results.
What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
If ricotta cheese is not available, you can substitute it with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy or have on hand. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the mixture or even some chopped jalapeños. You could also use spicy marinara sauce for an extra kick!
Final Thoughts
This high protein baked pasta with chicken is a fantastic meal option for college students looking to eat healthy on a budget. With its combination of flavorful ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a dish that can satisfy your cravings while keeping your wallet happy. So gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!
Bon appétit!
