Description
These protein-packed pasta recipes are hearty, satisfying, and bursting with wholesome flavor. From creamy sauces to tomato-rich bolognese, they deliver comfort and nutrition in every bite—perfect for fueling your day or feeding the whole family.
Ingredients
- Lean ground turkey, chicken, or beef
- Chicken sausage
- Cooked or canned lentils
- Chickpeas or white beans
- Tofu or tempeh
- Greek yogurt (for sauces)
- Ricotta or cottage cheese
- Eggs (for carbonara-style dishes)
- Protein-rich pasta (chickpea, lentil, or quinoa-based)
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Onion
- Crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce
- Fresh herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- Parmesan, feta, or nutritional yeast
- Spinach, broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers
Instructions
- Boil water, salt it well, and cook the protein-rich pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic and onion. Add your chosen protein (meat, tofu, beans) and cook until golden and flavorful.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, marinara, or a Greek yogurt-based sauce. Add vegetables and simmer until tender.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. Use pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Top with cheese or herbs and serve hot.
Notes
To boost protein, opt for legume-based pasta and mix in ingredients like Greek yogurt or ricotta. For vegan versions, use tofu, beans, and dairy-free alternatives. These recipes store and reheat well—perfect for meal prep!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: protein pasta, healthy pasta, high protein dinner, meal prep pasta, easy pasta recipe