If you're looking for a protein-packed pasta recipe that's loaded with Mediterranean flavor and perfect for meal prep, this is it. This Mediterranean Pasta Bake combines juicy sirloin steak, chickpea pasta, nutrient-dense veggies, and a tangy homemade Greek dressing that ties it all together.
It's satisfying, macro-balanced, and can easily double as a weeknight dinner or something you bring to a casual weekend potluck.
👉 Want more meal prep recipes that are just as balanced and delicious?
Check out our Weekly Meal Plans here: workweeklunch.com/weekly-meal-plans
Why You'll Love This Mediterranean Pasta Bake
It's Full of Flavor
From briny kalamata olives to sweet cherry tomatoes and tangy feta, every bite is packed with Mediterranean goodness. The homemade olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing adds herby brightness to tie it all together.
It Hits All the Macros
- Fats: Olive oil + steak + feta
It's a well-rounded, filling option that will keep you energized throughout the day. - Protein: Lean sirloin steak + chickpea pasta
- Carbs: Chickpea pasta + veggies
It Packs a Nutritional Punch
Sirloin steak is a great source of B vitamins, zinc, selenium, and protein. The chickpea pasta adds fiber and plant-based protein. Spinach, tomatoes, and artichokes bring antioxidants, potassium, magnesium, and vitamin C.
It's Affordable
Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or budget-friendly grocery items. You can easily make swaps based on what you already have on hand.
Mediterranean Pasta Bake Recipe
Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 26 minutes
Total Time: 36 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pasta Bake:
- ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 8 oz chickpea pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 12 oz cubed sirloin beef
- 3 cups spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup artichoke hearts, halved and drained
- ¼ cup kalamata olives, sliced
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon cracked black pepper
For Serving (Optional):
- 1 cup cubed pineapple
- 1 cup cubed cantaloupe
- ½ cup blueberries
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook the chickpea pasta according to package instructions. Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Set aside. - Sear the Steak:
In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the cubed sirloin beef for 3-4 minutes until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove from heat. - Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together all dressing ingredients: red wine vinegar, olive oil, ginger, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. - Assemble the Bake:
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, spinach, tomatoes, artichokes, olives, feta, and seared beef. Drizzle with the dressing and toss to combine. - Bake:
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and the beef is cooked through. - Serve:
Portion into 4-6 servings. Add a side of fresh fruit salad for a refreshing, balanced meal.
How to Store
- Cool completely before storing.
- Divide into airtight containers.
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
How to Reheat
- Microwave: Heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 10-12 minutes in an oven-safe dish.
- Air Fryer (Optional): For a crispy top, air fry at 375°F for 5-6 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Ground beef, skirt steak, or even rotisserie chicken work great here. Adjust cook time accordingly.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Skip the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based version. The dressing and other components are naturally dairy-free.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes! Chickpea pasta is gluten-free, but you can also use lentil pasta or gluten-free penne depending on availability.
What if I don't like olives or artichokes?
No problem-leave them out or swap with roasted red peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a similar Mediterranean vibe.
Can I freeze this pasta bake?
Yes, though the texture of spinach and feta may change slightly. Freeze individual portions and reheat in the oven for best results.
Take the Guesswork Out of Meal Prep
Want recipes like this delivered every week-complete with a grocery list and prep instructions?
Try the Workweek Lunch Weekly Meal Plans!
They're designed to help you eat better, save time, and stay on track with your goals.
👉 Click here to start meal planning today
Ingredients
For Pasta
- 8 oz. chickpea pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 12 oz. cubed sirloin beef
- 3 cups spinach
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup halved artichoke hearts drained
- ¼ cup sliced kalamata olives
- ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
For Dressing
- 3 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon cracked black pepper
For Serving
- 1 cup cubed pineapple
- 1 cup cubed cantaloupe
- ½ cup blueberries
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425ºF and lightly grease an 8x11 casserole dish. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- While pasta cooks, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat in a medium skillet for 2 minutes. Season beef with salt and pepper. Add beef to skillet and sear for 2 minutes. Turn beef using tongs and add spinach to the skillet. Cook 2 minutes longer to wilt spinach. Cook beef until temperature reaches 145°F for medium rare.
- Drain pasta and add to the casserole dish. Stir together ingredients for dressing. Pour half of the dressing over warm pasta and toss to coat. Stir in steak and spinach. Top with olives, tomatoes and kalamata olives. Pour remaining dressing over vegetables. Top with crumbled feta cheese and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the top is lightly browned.
- Divide pasta between large compartments of 4 teal meal prep containers. Add fruit salad to small compartments.
Notes
Nutrition
Holly says
I love this recipe (have it bookmarked) but now I can’t even see it. Where’d it go?!
Meal Prep on Fleek says
Hey Holly - The full recipe, with macros and nutrition info, is available for premium members only. You can unlock all 650+ meal prep recipes by signing up here: https://mealpreponfleek.com/register/