High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls (384 Cal + 36g Protein)

High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls (384 Cal + 36g Protein) are a delightful twist on classic pasta dishes, combining comfort food with nutritional benefits. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to maintain a high-protein diet without sacrificing flavor. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend, these pasta bowls can be whipped up in no time, making them an ideal choice for meal prep or family dinners. Plus, the creamy garlic parmesan sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, elevating your dinner experience without breaking a sweat. Let’s delve into what makes this dish a must-try!

What Makes This Recipe Special

There are so many reasons to love High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls! First, it’s quick and easy, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy weeknights. It’s also budget-friendly, requiring just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Plus, with 36 grams of protein per serving, it’s a great way to power up your meals, especially after a workout.

This dish is not only nutritious but also kid-approved! The creamy sauce is a huge hit with children, making it easier to get them to eat their protein. Whether you’re prepping for lunch or dinner, these bowls are versatile enough to accommodate different tastes and pair beautifully with various sides.

“This dish was a game changer! Not only did my kids love it, but it’s packed with protein too. It’s my go-to for busy nights!” – A Happy Home Cook

How to Prepare This Recipe

Preparing High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls is a breeze! Start by cooking your pasta until it’s perfectly al dente. While that’s happening, grill your chicken to golden perfection. The sautéed garlic mixed with cream cheese and parmesan creates a luscious, flavorful sauce that will coat the pasta beautifully. It’s all about timing and layering flavors, but once you’ve done it a time or two, it becomes second nature!

1. Cook pasta until al dente and drain.
2. Grill chicken breast and slice.
3. Sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
4. Mix cream cheese, almond milk, and parmesan, and combine with pasta.

What You’ll Need

To create these scrumptious pasta bowls, here’s your ingredient checklist:

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• 120 g cooked penne or rigatoni (you can use whole wheat or gluten-free varieties based on your preference)
• 120 g grilled chicken breast, sliced (replace with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option)
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 30 g light cream cheese (can substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangy touch)
• 15 g grated parmesan (feel free to use a dairy-free option)
• 30 ml unsweetened almond milk (or milk of your choice)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or spinach (optional but adds a lovely freshness)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a pan over medium heat, add the olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Lower the heat and add in the cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
4. Pour in the almond milk, continuing to stir until combined.
5. Mix in the grated parmesan, seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until well coated.
7. Serve topped with sliced grilled chicken and fresh parsley or spinach if desired.
8. Portion into meal prep containers and refrigerate for up to four days.

Best Way to Serve

These pasta bowls can stand alone as a satisfying main dish, but don’t be afraid to get creative! Pair them with a crisp side salad drizzled with vinaigrette or serve alongside some roasted vegetables for added nutrition. A light garlic bread would also complement the rich flavors beautifully, making this meal both hearty and festive.

Storage Tips

Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious pasta bowls, you can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to keep them in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Reheating is simple; just pop them in the microwave for a quick meal. If you’re planning to make this dish ahead of time, consider storing the chicken separately so it doesn’t dry out.

Expert Advice

To enhance your cooking experience, here are some pro tips:

• Always cook the pasta in salted water. It helps to infuse flavor right from the start.
• If you’re short on time, consider using pre-grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken.
• Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavor profiles, like feta or goat cheese.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? There are myriad ways to customize this recipe! Have a preference for spicy dishes? Add red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. Want to load up on veggies? Toss in some steamed broccoli or peas at the end. You could even go Mediterranean by adding sun-dried tomatoes and olives.

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for this recipe?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and roughly 15 minutes to cook, for a total of 25 minutes.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a satisfying protein boost.

How can I store the leftovers safely?
Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming.

High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls are not just an ordinary meal; they’re a flavorful, protein-packed experience that everyone can enjoy. With a blend of simplicity, taste, and nutrition, they’re sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire!

High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls

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• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: High Protein

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Description

Delightful pasta bowls combining comfort food with high nutritional benefits perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 120 g cooked penne or rigatoni
• 120 g grilled chicken breast, sliced (or tofu/chickpeas for vegetarian option)
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 30 g light cream cheese (or Greek yogurt)
• 15 g grated parmesan (or dairy-free option)
• 30 ml unsweetened almond milk (or your choice of milk)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or spinach (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a pan over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Lower the heat and add cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
4. Pour in almond milk, continuing to stir until combined.
5. Mix in grated parmesan, seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until well coated.
7. Serve topped with sliced grilled chicken and fresh parsley or spinach if desired.
8. Portion into meal prep containers and refrigerate for up to four days.

Notes

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 384
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: pasta, high protein, garlic, parmesan, quick meal, kid approved