Healthy Pasta & Meatball Meal Prep: A Wholesome Twist on a Classic Favorite

Looking for a comforting and nourishing meal that’s packed with flavor and veggies? This Healthy Pasta & Meatballs recipe is an easy, wholesome twist on the classic dish. Made with brown rice noodles and nutrient-dense veggies, this dish is perfect for easy & healthy big-batch meal prepping!

Yields: 8 servings Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30-35 minutes

Total: 45-50 minutes (including optional baking time for the baked version)

Ingredients

• 1 bag frozen grass-fed meatballs (gluten-free optional, if available)

• 2 boxes brown rice pasta (any noodle; recommended brand: Jovial)

• 2 cans organic pasta sauce (look for no added sugar)

• 1 container baby portobello mushrooms, sliced

• 1 yellow onion, diced

• 2 cups fresh spinach

• 1 tsp sea salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 3 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1 tbs minced garlic (or 3 cloves)

• Optional: Parmesan cheese for topping (if dairy is tolerated)

Directions

1. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions. Once done, drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat the frozen meatballs over medium heat. Cook for about 10 minutes, turning them occasionally, until heated through. If using uncooked meatballs, cook them thoroughly according to package instructions.

3. While the meatballs are cooking, heat a bit of olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, and mushrooms and sauté until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes. Toss in the spinach and sauté until wilted.

4. Once the veggies are ready, add the pasta sauce, salt, pepper, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine, and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes to blend the flavors.

5. Add the sauce and veggie mixture and drained pasta back into the large pot. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. Serve with the meatballs on top.

6. To turn this into the ultimate cheesy comfort food, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). After assembling the pasta and meatballs, transfer everything into an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle a light amount of parmesan cheese on top and bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.