When the weather cools down, there’s nothing better than a hearty pasta bake — especially one that doesn’t undo your progress. This High-Protein Beef & Bacon Pasta Bake hits the spot with over 50g of protein per serve, plenty of fibre, and all the comforting flavours you crave. Plus, it’s made with smart carb swaps and better-for-you ingredients, so you can enjoy every bite, guilt-free.
Table of Contents
Why This Pasta Bake Works for Your Goals
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50g+ Protein Per Serve: Fuel your muscles and stay fuller for longer
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Smart Carbs: Made with fibre-rich spaghetti to support digestion
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Veggie Boost: Spinach and cherry tomatoes for colour, fibre, and nutrients
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Easy Bake Finish: Toss, top with cheese, and bake until golden
Ingredients (Serves 1)
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125g extra lean beef mince (95% fat free)
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40g short cut bacon (trimmed)
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100mL tomato-based pasta sauce (store-bought)
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70g Vetta Smart Pasta Fibre Spaghetti (dry)
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60g cherry tomatoes
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20g spinach
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25g shredded mozzarella
Method
1. Preheat oven to 180°C. Season mince with salt and pepper. Cook mince and bacon in a pan for 4–5 minutes or until browned. Remove from pan.
2. In the same pan, add spinach, cherry tomatoes, and pasta sauce. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to packet instructions. Drain, then add to the pan along with cooked beef and bacon. Toss to coat.
4. Transfer everything to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella, and bake for 10–15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Nutrition Per Serve
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Calories: 620 kcal
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Protein: 50.3g
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Fat: 16.7g
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Carbs: 59g
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Fibre: 8.8g
Make-Ahead & Freezer Friendly
Batch cook it on Sunday and freeze in portions for quick dinners or post-workout fuel. Just reheat and enjoy, the flavour gets better by the day.
Comfort That Loves You Back
This pasta bake is the perfect balance of comfort food satisfaction and nutritional intent – helping you stay on track without sacrificing flavour. It’s ideal for family dinners, Sunday meal prep, or a cosy night in.