Step 1

Preheat the oven to 375ºF.

Step 2

Cook the 12 ounces whole wheat or protein pasta in salted water according to package timing. Once done, reserve 1 cup of water then drain the pasta and place it in a baking dish.

Step 3

Cook the 1 pound lean ground beef in a deep skillet over medium heat. Once no longer pink, stir in the chopped 1 sweet onion and the 2-3 garlic cloves (minced). Continue to cook until it starts to brown.

Step 4

Add the 15 ounces tomato sauce, 1 cup sugar-free spicy or classic ketchup, 1 tablespoon dijon mustard, and Kosher salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.

Step 5

Add in the pasta water and simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 6

Pour this sauce over the pasta in the baking dish.

Step 7

Top with 1 cup cheddar cheese and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbly.