The Secrets of an Italian Leftover Pasta Bake

mozzarella cheese

🥗Healthier: part-skim mozzarella

💰Cheaper: cheddar cheese

Part-skim mozzarella reduces fat while maintaining meltiness.

parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: grated pecorino

Nutritional yeast is a vegan alternative with a cheesy flavor.

ricotta cheese

🥗Healthier: cottage cheese

💰Cheaper: cream cheese

Cottage cheese is lower in fat and calories.

ground meat

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: lentils

Lentils are a budget-friendly protein alternative.

Preheat the oven to 380°F (193°C).

In a baking dish, combine leftover pasta, meat sauce, and chopped salami.

Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil to add moisture if the pasta is dry.

Mix everything together so that the pasta is well coated with the sauce and salami.

Sprinkle provolone cheese on top of the pasta mixture.

Add fresh mozzarella slices on top for melting.

Bake in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes until crispy and golden.

Check for crispiness by pressing on the pasta; it should feel crunchy.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens