Creamy Marinara Pasta Bake with Broccoli and Lentils
May 14, 2025
Before We Dive Into This Delicious Recipe…
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Now, let’s get into the details of this incredible recipe! 🌱
Creamy Marinara Pasta Bake with Broccoli and Lentils.
Serves: 8
Estimated Cost: ~$13–15
Ingredients:
- 2 boxes whole wheat or regular pasta (16 oz) = ~$2.25
- ½ package of tofu = ~$2
- 2 jars or cans marinara sauce = ~$3
- 2 heads broccoli or 1 bag frozen = ~$2–3
- Italian dressing mix = $2
- 1 cup of lentils = ~$1
- Optional: sprinkle of nutritional yeast = ~$1
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
2 (16 oz) boxes whole wheat or regular pasta
2 heads broccoli or 1 (12–16 oz) bag frozen broccoli
1 cup dried lentils
1 packet Italian dressing mix (optional)
Nutritional yeast, for sprinkling (optional)
Creamy Sauce:
½ block tofu (use remaining from above)
2 jars marinara sauce (use from above)
½ cup raw cashews
¼ cup nutritional yeast
1 tsp rosemary
1 tsp thyme
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp Better Than Bouillon or vegetable broth paste (or bullion)
Instructions
1.Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2.Cook the Lentils: In a separate pot, add 1 cup dried lentils and enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until tender. Drain, rinse, and stir in the Italian dressing mix if using. Set aside.
3.Steam the Broccoli:Steam the broccoli until bright green and tender. If using frozen broccoli, cook according to package instructions.
4.Make the Creamy Sauce: In a blender, combine the tofu, marinara sauce, cashews, nutritional yeast, rosemary, thyme, oregano, and Better Than Bouillon. Blend until smooth and creamy.
5.Combine: In a large mixing bowl or 9x13-inch baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, lentils, broccoli, and creamy sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
6.Optional Bake: For a warm, baked finish, place the mixture in a casserole dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until heated through and slightly golden on top.
7.Serve: Sprinkle with nutritional yeast if desired and serve warm.
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