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Creamy Protein-Packed Pasta Bowl Recipe

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4.3 from 30 reviews

This Creamy Protein-Packed Pasta Bowl is a quick and nutritious meal featuring tender shell pasta tossed with savory chicken sausage, sautéed zucchini, and fresh spinach, all enveloped in a luscious light cream cheese or Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner, this dish balances protein, vegetables, and creamy goodness in every bite.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 1 cup cooked shell pasta (or your favorite shape)

Proteins

  • 1 Applegate chicken sausage, sliced

Vegetables

  • 1 small zucchini, sliced
  • 1 handful fresh spinach

Sauce and Seasonings

  • ¼ cup light or reduced-fat cream cheese or Alfredo sauce
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Cooking Fat

  • Olive oil spray or 1 tsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Prepare pasta according to package directions. Once cooked, drain thoroughly and set aside to prevent overcooking.
  2. Sauté Veggies: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced zucchini and sauté until it turns golden and tender. Then, add fresh spinach and cook until just wilted to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
  3. Add Sausage: Toss sliced chicken sausage into the skillet with the veggies. Sauté together until the sausage is heated through and lightly browned for added flavor and texture.
  4. Combine & Cream It Up: Stir in the cooked pasta along with the light cream cheese or Alfredo sauce. Mix continuously until the pasta and ingredients are evenly coated, resulting in a creamy, rich consistency.
  5. Season & Serve: Season the pasta bowl with salt, pepper, and any favorite herbs like basil or oregano to enhance the taste. Serve warm immediately and enjoy your creamy protein-packed meal!

Notes

  • You can substitute the chicken sausage with turkey or plant-based sausage as desired.
  • Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer.
  • For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk or pasta water when stirring in the cream cheese or Alfredo sauce.
  • Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley makes a great finishing touch.
  • This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep.

Find it online: https://flavorspath.com/creamy-protein-packed-pasta-bowl-recipe/