Description
This Creamy Protein Pasta Bowl is a quick and healthy comfort food made with tender pasta, sautéed zucchini, fresh spinach, and hearty chicken sausage, all coated in a creamy sauce. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight meal that’s cozy, nourishing, and satisfying without being heavy.
Ingredients
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1 cup (85 g) cooked shell pasta (or any pasta shape)
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1 Applegate chicken sausage, sliced
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1 small zucchini, sliced
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1 handful (about 30 g) fresh spinach
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¼ cup (60 g) light cream cheese or Alfredo sauce
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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Olive oil spray or 1 tsp (5 ml) olive oil
Instructions
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Cook the pasta – Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions. Reserve ¼ cup (60 ml) of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the vegetables – Heat a skillet with olive oil over medium-high. Cook zucchini slices for 2–3 minutes per side until caramelized. Add spinach and cook until just wilted.
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Cook the sausage – Push veggies to the side of the skillet. Add sliced chicken sausage and sauté 2–3 minutes until golden and slightly crispy.
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Make it creamy – Reduce heat to low. Stir in pasta and cream cheese (or Alfredo sauce). Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until creamy.
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Finish & serve – Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with lemon zest, chili flakes, or fresh basil if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Save some pasta water—it helps the sauce become silky and smooth.
Mushrooms, broccoli, or bell peppers can be swapped for zucchini.
Greek yogurt or cashew cream can replace cream cheese for a lighter or dairy-free version.
Use lentil or chickpea pasta to boost protein further.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American