This Easy Vegan High Protein Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food with a healthy twist — made with protein-rich lentils or tofu, pasta, and a creamy dairy-free cheese sauce. It’s easy to prep, meal-prep friendly, and loved by vegans and meat-eaters alike. Perfect for cozy weeknights or bringing to a potluck!
🕒 Prep Time: 15 mins
🔥 Cook Time: 25 mins
⏱️ Total Time: 40 mins
🍽️ Servings: 6
🔢 Calories per Serving: ~400
💪 Protein per Serving: ~20g
📝 Ingredients:
- 🍝 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini, whole wheat or gluten-free if needed)
- 🍅 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 🧄 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 🧅 1 small onion, chopped
- 🌿 1 tsp dried oregano
- 🌿 ½ tsp basil or Italian seasoning
- 🧂 Salt & pepper, to taste
- 🥫 1 (15 oz) can lentils, drained and rinsed (or 1 block firm tofu, crumbled)
- 🧀 1 cup vegan shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella style)
- 🧈 1 tbsp olive oil
Optional for more protein:
- 🌰 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 🥦 1 cup steamed broccoli
- 🌿 Chopped spinach or kale
👩🍳 Instructions:
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Boil the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Sauté the Base
In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Add onion and garlic and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft.
3️⃣ Add Tomatoes & Protein
Stir in crushed tomatoes, lentils or tofu, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to let flavors develop. Add broccoli or spinach if using.
4️⃣ Combine & Layer
In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the sauce. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with vegan shredded cheese.
5️⃣ Bake
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
6️⃣ Cool & Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or extra nutritional yeast if desired.
🍯 Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- ✅ High-protein & 100% plant-based
- ✅ Super family-friendly and satisfying
- ✅ Easy to prep ahead or freeze
- ✅ Customizable with your favorite veggies
- ✅ Creamy, cheesy, and cozy — without any dairy!
📌 Save this Easy Vegan High Protein Pasta Bake for your next Meatless Monday — you won’t even miss the meat!
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