15 Healthy High Protein Pasta Recipes (Easy Vegetarian Dinners)

If you’ve been craving comfort food but still want to hit your nutrition goals, these high protein pasta recipes are about to change your weekly meal routine. There’s something deeply satisfying about a warm bowl of pasta — especially when it’s packed with protein, full of flavor, and actually supports your health goals.

These high protein pasta recipes are designed for busy days, tired evenings, and those moments when you want something hearty without the heaviness. They’re creamy, savory, fresh, and cozy — the kind of meals you make once and immediately add to your regular rotation.

Whether you’re focused on weight loss, muscle building, or simply eating better, these high protein pasta recipes bring balance back to comfort food. Think lean proteins, fiber-rich sauces, and simple ingredients that feel indulgent but nourish your body at the same time.

Also try: 15 Homemade Fruit Snacks

Why High Protein Pasta Recipes Are Taking Over Dinner Tables

Pasta is no longer just a carb-heavy comfort dish. Today’s high protein pasta recipes combine traditional favorites with smart upgrades like cottage cheese sauces, Greek yogurt, lean meats, and plant-based proteins. This shift makes pasta more filling, more satisfying, and easier to fit into healthy lifestyles.

People love these meals because they’re practical. You can prep them ahead, reheat leftovers, and customize flavors for picky eaters. Most importantly, they help curb late-night snacking by keeping you fuller longer. That’s why high protein pasta recipes are becoming everyday staples instead of occasional treats.

How These Protein-Packed Pastas Support Healthy Living

Every recipe in this collection focuses on balance. You’ll find lean protein sources paired with whole grains, vegetables, and creamy textures that don’t rely on heavy cream. These high protein pasta recipes help stabilize blood sugar, support muscle recovery, and reduce cravings.

They’re also incredibly versatile. Whether you prefer chicken, shrimp, tofu, or cottage cheese-based sauces, there’s something here for every taste. These dishes prove that eating healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor — it means cooking smarter.

Quick Overview Table

Recipe 1: Creamy Cottage Cheese Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Ingredients

• 8 oz high-protein pasta
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• ½ cup milk
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, sliced
• ½ cup grated parmesan
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper
• Italian seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
2. Blend cottage cheese, milk, and garlic until smooth.
3. Heat olive oil in pan over medium heat.
4. Add sliced chicken and warm through.
5. Pour cottage cheese sauce into pan.
6. Stir gently and add parmesan.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
8. Add cooked pasta to sauce.
9. Toss well, adding pasta water for creaminess.
10. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
11. Taste and adjust seasoning.
12. Serve hot.
13. Garnish with extra parmesan if desired.

Health & Weight-Loss Benefits

This pasta delivers powerful protein from chicken and cottage cheese. The creamy texture comes without heavy cream, keeping calories lower. High protein helps reduce cravings later in the evening. Garlic supports immunity. Whole-grain pasta adds fiber. This dish keeps you full for hours while still feeling indulgent.

Recipe 2: Garlic Shrimp Spinach Protein Pasta

Ingredients

• 8 oz protein pasta
• 10 oz raw shrimp, peeled
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Juice of half lemon
• Salt and pepper
• Chili flakes optional

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook pasta and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in skillet.
3. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink.
5. Toss in spinach until wilted.
6. Add cooked pasta to pan.
7. Squeeze lemon juice over everything.
8. Season with salt and pepper.
9. Toss gently to combine.
10. Simmer one minute.
11. Add chili flakes if desired.
12. Serve immediately.
13. Enjoy warm.

Health & Weight-Loss Benefits

Shrimp provides lean protein with minimal fat. Spinach adds iron and fiber. Lemon brightens flavor without extra calories. This meal is light yet filling. Protein supports muscle recovery. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

Recipe 3: TikTok-Inspired Baked Feta Protein Pasta

Ingredients

• 8 oz chickpea pasta
• 1 block feta cheese
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh basil
• Black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Place feta and tomatoes in baking dish.
3. Add garlic and drizzle olive oil.
4. Bake for 25 minutes.
5. Cook pasta while feta bakes.
6. Mash feta and tomatoes together.
7. Stir basil into sauce.
8. Add pasta to dish.
9. Toss until coated.
10. Season with pepper.
11. Adjust salt if needed.
12. Serve hot.
13. Garnish with basil.

Health & Weight-Loss Benefits

Chickpea pasta boosts plant protein and fiber. Feta adds flavor in small portions. Tomatoes provide antioxidants. This dish keeps energy steady. Helps reduce processed food cravings. Comfort food with nutrition built in.

Recipe 4: Creamy Greek Yogurt Pesto Turkey Pasta

Ingredients

• 8 oz protein pasta
• 1 cup cooked ground turkey
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup pesto
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes
• Salt and pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook pasta and drain.
2. Heat turkey in skillet.
3. Mix yogurt and pesto in bowl.
4. Add pasta to turkey.
5. Stir yogurt pesto sauce through.
6. Add tomatoes.
7. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Simmer gently 2 minutes.
9. Taste and adjust.
10. Serve warm.
11. Add extra pesto if desired.
12. Enjoy immediately.

Health & Weight-Loss Benefits

Greek yogurt creates creamy sauce without heavy fat. Turkey provides lean protein. Pesto delivers healthy fats. Tomatoes add freshness. This pasta supports fullness and muscle repair. Great post-workout meal.

Recipe 5: High Protein Mushroom Cream Pasta

Ingredients

• 8 oz lentil pasta
• 2 cups sliced mushrooms
• ½ cup cottage cheese
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook lentil pasta and set aside.
2. Sauté mushrooms in olive oil.
3. Blend cottage cheese with milk.
4. Pour sauce over mushrooms.
5. Season with garlic powder, salt, pepper.
6. Add pasta.
7. Toss gently.
8. Simmer 2 minutes.
9. Adjust seasoning.
10. Serve warm.
11. Optional parsley topping.
12. Enjoy fresh.

Health & Weight-Loss Benefits

Lentil pasta provides plant protein and fiber. Mushrooms add volume with low calories. Cottage cheese boosts satiety. This dish feels creamy without heaviness. Supports digestion. Ideal for lighter dinners.

Recipe 6: Buffalo Chicken High Protein Pasta Bowl

Ingredients

• 8 oz protein pasta
• 1½ cups cooked shredded chicken breast
• ⅓ cup buffalo sauce
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup light cream cheese
• ½ cup diced celery
• ¼ cup chopped green onions
• Salt and black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions and drain.
2. In a saucepan, warm buffalo sauce over low heat.
3. Stir in Greek yogurt and cream cheese until smooth.
4. Add shredded chicken and mix well.
5. Toss in cooked pasta.
6. Fold in celery for crunch.
7. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
8. Simmer gently for 2 minutes.
9. Taste and adjust spice level.
10. Transfer to serving bowls.
11. Sprinkle green onions on top.
12. Serve warm.
13. Optional drizzle extra buffalo sauce.

Health & Weight-Loss Benefits

Chicken provides lean protein that supports muscle maintenance. Greek yogurt replaces heavy cream, lowering fat while boosting satiety. Celery adds fiber and volume. This pasta keeps hunger away longer. Spicy flavors help reduce overeating. A comforting meal that still fits weight-loss plans.

Recipe 7: Lemon Garlic Salmon Protein Pasta

Ingredients

• 8 oz chickpea pasta
• 2 salmon fillets, cooked and flaked
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup baby spinach
• Salt and pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook pasta and reserve ¼ cup pasta water.
2. Heat olive oil in large skillet.
3. Add garlic and sauté briefly.
4. Stir in lemon zest and juice.
5. Add flaked salmon.
6. Toss in spinach until wilted.
7. Add cooked pasta.
8. Pour in pasta water for moisture.
9. Season with salt and pepper.
10. Toss gently.
11. Simmer 1 minute.
12. Serve immediately.
13. Optional parmesan topping.

Health & Weight-Loss Benefits

Salmon delivers omega-3 fats and high-quality protein. Chickpea pasta adds fiber for digestion. Spinach supports iron levels. Lemon brightens flavor without extra calories. This dish promotes fullness and heart health. Perfect for light but nourishing dinners.

Recipe 8: Creamy Taco Protein Pasta Skillet

Ingredients

• 8 oz high-protein pasta
• 1 cup cooked lean ground beef or turkey
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup salsa
• ½ cup black beans, rinsed
• ½ cup corn
• 1 teaspoon taco seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook pasta and set aside.
2. Warm meat in skillet.
3. Add black beans and corn.
4. Stir in salsa and taco seasoning.
5. Fold in Greek yogurt until creamy.
6. Add cooked pasta.
7. Mix thoroughly.
8. Simmer 2 minutes.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning.
10. Serve hot.
11. Optional cilantro garnish.
12. Great for meal prep.

Health & Weight-Loss Benefits

Lean meat boosts protein intake. Beans provide fiber for gut health. Greek yogurt keeps sauce light. Corn adds natural sweetness. This pasta keeps energy steady. Excellent option for high-protein comfort meals.

Recipe 9: Spinach Ricotta Protein Penne

Ingredients

• 8 oz protein penne
• ¾ cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup sautéed spinach
• ¼ cup grated parmesan
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook pasta until al dente.
2. In bowl, mix ricotta, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Fold in spinach.
4. Drain pasta and return to pot.
5. Add ricotta mixture.
6. Toss gently until coated.
7. Sprinkle parmesan.
8. Warm on low heat 2 minutes.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning.
10. Serve warm.
11. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
12. Enjoy fresh.

Health & Weight-Loss Benefits

Ricotta provides calcium and protein. Spinach delivers fiber and iron. This pasta feels creamy without excess fat. Protein supports fullness. Great for lighter evenings. Helps reduce late-night snacking.

Recipe 10: One-Pot Protein Marinara Veggie Pasta

Ingredients

• 8 oz lentil pasta
• 1½ cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup zucchini slices
• ½ cup diced bell peppers
• ½ cup mushrooms
• ½ cup white beans
• Italian seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Add pasta and marinara to large pot.
2. Pour in enough water to cover pasta.
3. Bring to simmer.
4. Add vegetables and beans.
5. Stir occasionally.
6. Cook until pasta is tender.
7. Season with Italian herbs.
8. Taste and adjust salt.
9. Let rest 2 minutes.
10. Serve warm.
11. Optional basil topping.
12. Store leftovers refrigerated.

Health & Weight-Loss Benefits

Lentil pasta and beans create powerful plant protein. Vegetables increase volume without calories. Marinara provides antioxidants from tomatoes. This one-pot meal is filling and simple. Supports digestion. Perfect for clean eating routines.

Recipe 11: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Protein Pasta

Ingredients

• 8 oz high-protein pasta
• 1½ cups cooked chicken breast, sliced
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup baby spinach
• ¼ cup grated parmesan
• Salt and black pepper
• Italian seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook pasta until al dente and reserve ¼ cup pasta water.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add garlic.
3. Add sliced chicken and warm through.
4. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes.
5. Fold in Greek yogurt and parmesan.
6. Add spinach and let wilt gently.
7. Toss in cooked pasta.
8. Add pasta water for creaminess.
9. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
10. Simmer for 2 minutes.
11. Taste and adjust seasoning.
12. Serve warm.
13. Optional basil garnish.

Health & Weight-Loss Benefits

This dish delivers lean protein from chicken and Greek yogurt. Spinach adds fiber and iron. Sun-dried tomatoes provide antioxidants. The creamy texture comes without heavy cream. High protein helps control appetite. A satisfying dinner that supports steady energy.

Recipe 12: High Protein Baked Ziti with Cottage Cheese

Ingredients

• 8 oz protein ziti
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1½ cups marinara sauce
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella
• ¼ cup grated parmesan
• 1 cup sautéed zucchini
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta and drain.
3. Mix cottage cheese with marinara.
4. Fold zucchini into sauce.
5. Combine pasta with sauce.
6. Transfer to baking dish.
7. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan on top.
8. Season lightly with garlic powder.
9. Bake for 25 minutes until bubbly.
10. Let rest 5 minutes.
11. Slice into portions.
12. Serve warm.
13. Store leftovers refrigerated.

Health & Weight-Loss Benefits

Cottage cheese boosts protein while keeping fat low. Marinara provides lycopene from tomatoes. Zucchini adds volume with minimal calories. This baked pasta keeps you full longer. Great for meal prep. Comfort food made smarter.

Recipe 13: Mediterranean Chickpea Protein Pasta

Ingredients

• 8 oz chickpea pasta
• ½ cup chickpeas, rinsed
• ½ cup diced cucumber
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes
• ¼ cup olives, sliced
• ¼ cup crumbled feta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook pasta and let cool slightly.
2. In large bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, and olives.
3. Add cooked pasta.
4. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice.
5. Toss gently.
6. Fold in feta cheese.
7. Season with salt if needed.
8. Chill for 10 minutes.
9. Serve cold or room temperature.
10. Optional parsley topping.
11. Great for summer meals.
12. Store covered.

Health & Weight-Loss Benefits

Chickpea pasta and beans deliver plant protein and fiber. Fresh vegetables hydrate and nourish. Olive oil provides healthy fats. This pasta salad keeps digestion moving. Helps prevent overeating. Perfect light yet filling option.

Recipe 14: Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Protein Mac

Ingredients

• 8 oz protein elbow pasta
• 1 cup steamed broccoli
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• ½ cup shredded cheddar
• ¼ cup milk
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook pasta and drain.
2. Blend yogurt and milk until smooth.
3. Return pasta to pot.
4. Add yogurt mixture and cheddar.
5. Stir over low heat until melted.
6. Fold in broccoli.
7. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
8. Simmer gently.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning.
10. Serve warm.
11. Optional paprika sprinkle.
12. Enjoy fresh.

Health & Weight-Loss Benefits

Greek yogurt replaces heavy cream for lighter sauce. Broccoli adds fiber and vitamins. Cheddar provides flavor with moderate portions. This mac feels indulgent but stays balanced. High protein supports muscle health. Great for family-friendly dinners.

Recipe 15: Creamy Avocado Chicken Protein Pasta

Ingredients

• 8 oz lentil pasta
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 clove garlic
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh cilantro

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook pasta and set aside.
2. Blend avocado, lime juice, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Season sauce with salt and pepper.
4. Toss pasta with avocado sauce.
5. Fold in chicken.
6. Warm gently if desired.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning.
8. Garnish with cilantro.
9. Serve immediately.
10. Add cherry tomatoes if wanted.
11. Creamy without dairy.
12. Enjoy fresh.

Health & Weight-Loss Benefits

Avocado provides healthy fats that keep you satisfied. Chicken adds lean protein. Lentil pasta boosts fiber. Lime supports digestion. This pasta helps reduce cravings. A nourishing way to enjoy creamy textures.

H2 Conclusion: Save These High Protein Pasta Recipes for Your Weekly Dinner Rotation

These high protein pasta recipes prove that comfort food and healthy eating can absolutely live on the same plate. From creamy cottage cheese sauces to veggie-packed bowls and baked classics, every recipe here was created to help you eat better without giving up the foods you love.

Now you have 15 satisfying meals that support fullness, energy, and balanced nutrition — perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep Sundays, or cozy evenings at home. Save this collection, share it with friends, and keep it bookmarked for those moments when dinner inspiration runs low.

If these high protein pasta recipes helped spark new ideas, don’t forget to save this post and click through for even more healthy, cozy, and crave-worthy recipes you’ll want to make again and again.