Light Courgette and Ham Pasta Bake with Gouda Topping

Published 5 months ago

This courgette and deli ham pasta bake is quick and easy to put together. Wholegrain fusilli, courgette, onion, and chicken ham are baked in a creamy tomato sauce, then topped with melted Gouda. It’s a great choice for lunch or dinner, and it’s perfect for making ahead.

Light Courgette and Ham Pasta Bake with Gouda Topping
category One-Pot
meal type Dinner
difficulty Easy
Preparation in 20 minutes
Cooks in 40 minutes
Serves 4

Nutrition

  • Calories 507kcal 134kcal
  • Fat 16.5g 4.3g
  • Carbs 60.0g 15.8g
  • Proteins 25.9g 6.8g
  • Fibre 8.6g 2.3g

Ingredients

Spoon measurements may change based on how you scoop the ingredients.

For the most accurate results and nutrition info, it’s best to use grams.

tsp = teaspoon
tbsp = tablespoon

Method

Why I Like this Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it’s simple and has a nice balance of pasta, protein, and sauce. It’s also great for meal prep and reheats well.

Tips and Variations

  • Try using light mozzarella or cottage cheese instead of Gouda to lower the calories.
  • Add grated carrots or spinach to the sauce for extra fibre.
  • To make this dish vegetarian, swap the chicken ham for chickpeas or tofu.
  • Add some chilli flakes or smoked paprika if you like a bolder flavour.
  • Serve the pasta bake with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a well-balanced meal.
  • If you’re sensitive to dairy, use lactose-free rice cream.
  • Stir in a spoonful of nutritional yeast to boost the protein.
  • Store individual portions in containers to make meal prep easy during the week.

Meal Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.

Freezer tips

Freeze the pasta bake in an airtight container at -18°C.

Let the pasta bake thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat until hot.

Frequently Asked Question

Yes, you can use light cooking cream or plant-based cream alternatives if you prefer.
Yes. Just leave out the chicken ham and add lentils, tofu, or extra vegetables instead.
Dutch Gouda gives a rich, creamy finish, but mozzarella or cheddar also works well.
Yes, it keeps and reheats really well, so it’s great for healthy lunches or quick dinners.
Definitely! Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

Closing Note

This courgette and pasta bake is creamy and cheesy, but still fits into a balanced meal plan. It’s also great for making ahead of the week.

  • 💪 High Protein
  • 🌾 High Fibre
  • 🧊 Freezer Friendly

Reviews

0 out of 5

Be first! Review this recipe now!

Write review

Browse related recipe pages

Explore more recipe pages related to this dish.

Related Recipes