The 6 Best High Protein Pasta Recipes

Pasta is one of the crucial diverse foods on the subject of flavoring options. But attributable to its high carbohydrate content and complete lack of protein, it’s gotten a foul rap.

Fortunately, like several of our favourite foods, pasta has been redesigned and loaded with protein to present it a recent dietary makeup. Protein pasta will be made through the use of store-bought protein noodles or adding protein-dense ingredients to regular or whole-wheat pasta.

While pasta is usually reserved for endurance athletes or those undergoing a bulking weight loss plan, adding protein and other healthy ingredients can fit it into any gym goer’s routine. In this text, we’ll teach you the six best protein pasta recipes. 

Table of Contents:

• What Is Protein Pasta?
• 6 Best Protein Pasta Recipes
• Suggestions For Cooking Perfect Protein Pasta
• Tips on how to Include High-Protein Pastas in Your Weight-reduction plan
• Protein Pasta Shopping List
• FAQs

What’s Protein Pasta?

To place it very simply, protein pasta is pasta that comprises a higher-than-normal amount of protein. It may vary from store-bought protein noodles, created from high-protein ingredients, or made by adding protein sources to pasta, resembling cheese and meat.

Essentially the most common method to create protein pasta is by adding high protein low fat foods, resembling chicken, lean ground beef, turkey, tofu, or one other predominant protein source. It also often includes whole-wheat pasta, a much healthier option than regular pasta. 

Other options transform the pasta itself, crafting it from plant proteins, resembling legumes, chickpeas, and flaxseed. We’ll explore this difference deeper and supply recipes for each sorts of pasta. 

6 Best Protein Pasta Recipes

Now that we understand the lowdown on protein pasta, let’s get into the tastiest recipes. You will find a pleasant mix here, with some great for cutting and others good for bulking. As at all times, you’ll be able to personalize these as much as you want, but then be sure to regulate your macros accordingly.

1) Basic Protein Pasta:

An excellent tackle traditional pasta, this recipe is for essentially the most basic, easy protein pasta meal. It has enough toppings to offer a healthy protein content even in the event you use regular pasta, although have in mind doing so will change the macros.

With over 35 grams of protein and created from common pantry staples, you’ll love this basic protein pasta recipe! 

Ingredients:

• 14.5oz protein pasta, uncooked
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large chopped onion
• 1lb lean ground beef
• 24oz of marinara sauce
• 1 tablespoon of Italian seasonings
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup parsley, chopped
• ½ cup of plain, nonfat Greek yogurt
• 1 cup parmesan cheese
• 1 lb cottage cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese

Directions:

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking dish, or as near this size as possible. 
• Cook the pasta based on the instructions on the package. Once it’s cooked, drain it and put aside.
• In a medium pan, add the olive oil and place over medium heat. When hot, add the onion and garlic, then cook for two minutes until you’ll be able to smell it. 
• Add the lean ground beef, cooking and breaking it apart until it isn’t any longer pink.
• Add the marinara sauce and Italian seasonings. Cook until the sauce is warm, then remove it from the warmth.
• Whisk together the eggs, parsley, Greek yogurt, parmesan cheese, and cottage cheese in a unique bowl. 
• Spread a skinny layer of meat sauce along the underside of the baking dish. Add half of the cooked pasta, then half of the cottage cheese mixture, then a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese across. 
• Add the remaining half of the cooked pasta, followed by the remaining cottage cheese mixture. Pour the remaining meat sauce excessive and, finally, the remaining mozzarella cheese.
• Bake every part for 35-45 minutes until the cheese is visibly melted. It ought to be golden brown in spots. Remove from the oven, and garnish with fresh parsley before you slice and serve. 

This recipe takes only five minutes of prep time and ought to be divided into 8 servings. Each serving could have 280 calories, 36 g of protein, 21 g of carbs, 8 g of fiber, 13 g of net carbs, and 12 g of fat. 

2) Turkey (or Chicken), Pesto, and Broccoli Pasta:

This recipe is super easy to make and will be flexible to your preferences. It doesn’t require a special protein pasta and will be made using fresh, refrigerated pesto or shelf-stable pesto.

With a healthy serving of vegetables, this balanced meal is great for any weight loss plan. 

Ingredients:

• 6oz whole-wheat fusilli pasta
• 3 cups small broccoli florets
• 2 cups shredded cooked turkey or chicken (8 oz)
• 1 cup grape tomatoes, cut in half
• ¾ cup prepared pesto
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Directions:

• Bring a big pot to a boil.
• Add the pasta and cook it for 3 minutes, lower than the package recommends.
• Add the broccoli and proceed cooking until the pasta is tender and the broccoli is tender-crisp, about 3 minutes more. 
• Drain the water, then return the pasta and broccoli to the pot.
• Stir within the turkey (or chicken), tomatoes, pesto, lemon juice, and salt.
• Divide into 4 servings and top each with pepper and parmesan cheese.

Each serving could have roughly 420 calories, 30 g of protein, 37 g of carbs, 6 g of fiber, 31 g of net carbs, and 18 g of fat. 

3) High Protein Healthy Mac and Cheese:

Is there any higher comfort food than macaroni and cheese? Unfortunately, store-bought mac and cheese is commonly loaded with fat with a cheese sauce low in dietary value. Alas, we’ve a recipe for a delicious, high-protein healthy mac and cheese, which is great for anyone counting macros.

With only five minutes of prep required and under 400 calories per serving, you’ll love this protein-packed recipe.

Ingredients:

• 1 box Barilla Chickpea Rotini 
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 tablespoon organic butter
• 1 cup of any kind of milk (we used unsweetened almond milk for this recipe)
• 1 laughing Cow spreadable cheese wedge (or substitute) 
• 1 ½ cups reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese (6 oz) 
• 1 handful chopped baby spinach
• Sprinkle sea salt and pepper (optional)

Directions:

• Bring a big pot of water to a boil for the pasta. Add the chickpea rotini pasta, or substitute, and cook for about 8 minutes. Add within the broccoli florets after 4 minutes. 
• Drain the pasta and broccoli florets, then put aside. 
• In the identical large pot over low/medium heat, add the butter, milk, salt, and pepper. 
• Once the butter has melted, add within the pasta, broccoli florets, cheese wedge, and shredded cheese. 
• Let the cheese melt for about 30 seconds, then stir every part together until the pasta is evenly coated with cheese.
• Finally, add the chopped baby spinach and toss it until wilted.
• Serve immediately with additional salt, pepper, or cheese if needed.

This cheesy recipe will make 4 servings, so be at liberty to regulate the amounts. It may easily be made vegan-friendly by switching to vegan butter, vegan cheddar cheese, and one tablespoon of vegan cream cheese rather than the spreadable cheese wedge.

If you would like to add barely more protein, switch the chickpea pasta to a high-protein pasta. Each serving comprises about 395 calories, 42 grams of carbs, 10 grams of fiber, 26 grams of protein, and 17 grams of fat. 

4) Kale, Sausage, and Pepper Pasta:

Another choice that does not require protein pasta (but continues to be loaded with macros), this healthy mixture will be made using any greens you have got readily available, making it easy to toss together.

Plus, it is a one-skillet recipe, so prep and clean-up shall be easy. 

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 links sweet Italian turkey sausage (8 oz), casing removed and crumbled
• 1 small red bell pepper, chopped
• ½ medium onion, chopped
• 4 cups chopped kale (3 oz)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ teaspoon crushed pepper (optional)
• 1½ cups water
• ¾ cup whole wheat penne pasta 
• 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese

Directions:

• Heat the oil in a big, non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. 
• Add the sausage and cook for about 2 to 4 minutes, until it’s now not pink. Remember to stir while cooking. 
• Toss the bell pepper and onion into the skillet, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes or until they’re softened.  
• Stir within the garlic, kale, crushed red pepper, and sausage. Stir and cook for about 3 minutes, until the kale is wilted.
• Add within the water and pasta while bringing to a boil. Stir occasionally and reduce the warmth to medium-low. Cover and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, until the pasta is tender. 
• Sprinkle it with parmesan cheese and serve hot.

This recipe is full of healthy vegetables and lean protein, ok for 2 servings. Each serving comprises roughly 463 calories, 30 g of protein, 46 g of carbs, 8g of fiber, and 19g of fat. 

5) Protein Spaghetti with Turkey Meatballs:

This protein-packed version of spaghetti and meatballs provides you with all of the childhood memories with none of the unhealthy ingredients.

This tasty recipe features store-bought protein pasta and lean ground turkey for a high-quality protein source full of spices to offer more dietary value while adding delicious flavor. Searching for an important dessert idea to enjoy after? Try these protein cookies!

Ingredients:

• 2oz Barilla Protein Spaghetti 
• 10 ounces extra lean ground turkey
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 30 grams finely grated parmesan cheese
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning, crushed
• 2 teaspoons salt
• ¼ cup egg whites
• 2 teaspoons ground pepper
• ½ cup pasta sauce

Directions:

• Add the olive oil to a small pot and place over medium heat. 
• Season the turkey with salt and pepper. Chop up the garlic cloves and mix them with the bottom turkey in a small bowl. 
• Form as many small meatballs as possible using your hands. Dip each meatball within the egg whites before adding it to the pot. The egg whites are only used to bind the meatballs, so you will not even taste them. 
• Cook the turkey within the olive oil by rotating it, ensuring all sides have browned. If you happen to prefer your meatball juicier, try covering them with a lid to lock within the moisture. 
• In a separate pot, boil water. Once the water is boiling, add the protein pasta and permit it to cook for roughly 5-8 minutes until al dente. 
• Once the pasta is cooked, drain the water and warmth the pasta sauce within the microwave, ideally in a glass container or bowl. 
• Top with additional parmesan cheese in the event you prefer, and revel in.

This recipe makes one massive serving that comprises 758 calories, 78 grams of protein, 51 grams of carbs, 6 grams of fiber, and 29.5 grams of fat. It seems more reasonable to divide this into two servings, each containing 379 calories, 39 grams of protein, 25 grams of carbs, 3 grams of fiber, and 14 grams of fat. 

6) Creamy Cajun Chicken Protein Pasta:

If you happen to enjoy creamy pasta full of spicy flavor, this recipe is for you!

This recipe uses regular pasta and creates its protein content using high-quality ingredients resembling chicken breast and cream cheese. Each serving is full of 38 grams of protein, but with over 500 calories, this recipe is likely to be best for those in a clean bulk workout and weight loss plan phase.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 red onion, diced
• 200g mushrooms, sliced
• 1 red pepper, sliced
• 500g chicken breast, sliced
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• Pinch of salt
• 500g pasta
• 500ml chicken stock
• 100g light cream cheese
• Chopped chives (garnish)

Directions:

• Heat the olive oil in a big non-stick pan. 
• Add the red onion, mushrooms, and sliced pepper. Cook for a couple of minutes until softened, then remove them from the pan and put aside.
• Add just a little more olive oil if obligatory, then add the sliced chicken. Fry until completely cooked through and has zero pink. 
• Add the veggies back into the pan together with the Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt. Stir thoroughly so it’s evenly mixed. 
• Add the pasta and chicken stock. Cover the pan and leave to a simmer for quarter-hour.
• Stir within the cream cheese to make the sauce thick and creamy. Serve with a garnish of chopped chives. 

This pasta dish will produce five servings, so be at liberty to scale down appropriately. This meal is best for a bulking or muscle-building weight loss plan, with each serving containing about 516 calories, 38 grams of protein per serving, 71 grams of carbs, and eight.5 grams of fat. 

Suggestions for Cooking Perfect Protein Pasta

Able to cook the proper pasta? Follow these 6 suggestions and prepare to enjoy a delicious protein-packed meal!

1. To get an awesome classic pasta taste each time, follow these guidelines:
2. Add salt to the pot of water to bring it to a boil faster.
3. It is crucial to attend until the water is boiling before adding the pasta. People often prefer to rush and add the pasta before the water is boiling, but this could destroy your pasta. Remember to wait for the water to be boiling. It can make a giant difference! 
4. Try to make use of as lean of meat as possible to maintain the calorie count lower. Turkey is the leanest, followed by chicken and beef. 
5. Leftovers will last within the refrigerator for as much as 5 days in an airtight container. It may last as long as 6 months within the freezer. 
6. Microwave your pasta for 30-45 seconds when reheating.

Tips on how to Include High-Protein Pastas in Your Weight-reduction plan

The entire recipes we listed make great options for lunch or dinner, but one of the best time to eat pasta is a couple of hours around your workout. Its high carbohydrate content will help offer you the energy for fuel beforehand, and afterward it’ll help replenish glycogen stores and speed up your workout recovery.

Pasta is one of the crucial versatile foods due to the assorted sauces and seasonings. Whether you utilize just butter or an elaborate cream sauce, you need to use pasta for a wide selection of meals. If for some reason you get sick of eating pasta dishes, you’ll be able to try adding protein pasta to your soup to present it a macro boost. 

Or, you’ll be able to try our article on 12 High Protein Lunch Ideas for more great protein-packed meals.

How Do You Increase Protein in Pasta?

The 2 predominant ways to extend your protein content in pasta are adding high-protein ingredients or using high-protein pasta noodles.

Try adding ingredients resembling meat sauce, where one pound of ground beef comprises 65g of protein. You may also add pieces of meat, resembling chicken strips, turkey meatballs, or ground beef.

Other ingredients commonly added to extend protein content are Greek yogurt, eggs, and various kinds of cheese, particularly mozzarella cheese, light cream cheese, and cottage cheese.

In fact, buying protein noodles as a substitute of standard pasta is the easiest method. The most effective high protein pasta brands to search for include Modern Table Protein Pasta, Barilla, and Banza.

Protein Pasta Shopping List

Able to head to the food market and pick up your ingredients? Be sure that to take this shopping list with you.

FAQs

Let’s answer any remaining questions regarding protein pasta here.

Which pasta is high in protein?

Any brand that sells protein pasta could have the very best protein content. If you happen to don’t desire to go that route, try a pea protein based pasta or traditional wheat based pasta.

Is protein pasta a great carb?

Yes, protein pasta is a great carbohydrate, especially if using whole wheat pasta. Nearly all brands of protein pasta are made using high-quality carbohydrates to assist keep you feeling full for hours. 

Is protein pasta good for weight reduction?

Yes, protein pasta will be used for weight reduction in the event you select a healthy option and eat it moderately. Protein helps boost your metabolism and keep you full longer, which is superb for reducing weight. Go for the recipes with less carbohydrates and calories to favor a weight reduction weight loss plan. 

Is pasta with protein healthy?

Yes, pasta with protein is healthy! High amounts of protein have been shown to assist construct lean muscle, maintain a healthy weight, and help keep you full longer. Add within the complex carbohydrates and healthy fats, and protein pasta is a whole meal.  

Is high-protein pasta price it?

Yes, we consider high-protein pasta is price it! As of this writing, a single box of Barilla Protein Pasta from Walmart is $2.52, while an everyday Barilla is $1.84. There are several inexpensive brands wherein the value difference is just not that significant, subsequently making them price it. 

Are noodles a great source of protein?

Unfortunately, most noodles usually are not an important source of protein on their very own. Whole-wheat pasta is preferred since it has the next protein content, roughly 8 g per cup. 

High Protein Pasta: Key Takeaways

As you’ll be able to see, there are plenty of ways to make this classic dish suit your macros while tasting great. Not only does protein pasta offer a recent dietary makeup to the old, carb-heavy versions, but you’ll be able to mix in every kind of ingredients to maintain thing interesting.

Whether you select store-bought protein noodles or add protein-dense ingredients to regular pasta, these recipes are sure to satisfy strict dieters and foodies alike. So grab that shopping list, and revel in trying a few of your recent favorite pasta dishes!