If you are craving a dish that brings together bold flavors, nutritious ingredients, and a satisfying creaminess, this High Protein Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers and enriched by a velvety Greek yogurt sauce, this pasta not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs a protein punch with lean chicken breast and whole wheat pasta. It’s a wholesome, comforting meal that feels indulgent while keeping things healthy and vibrant.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this recipe. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s the nutty depth of whole wheat pasta, the creaminess from Greek yogurt, or the fresh brightness of basil, making this dish perfectly balanced in taste and texture.
- Whole wheat pasta: Provides a hearty, fiber-rich base that adds a satisfying chew and a nutty flavor.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics to bring out their natural sweetness.
- Onion: Gives the sauce a tender, savory foundation once softened.
- Garlic: Infuses the dish with its signature aromatic punch.
- Roasted red peppers: The star ingredient, offering a smoky sweetness and vibrant color.
- Low-fat Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and boosts protein without heaviness.
- Unsweetened almond milk: Lightens the sauce while keeping it silky.
- Parmesan cheese: Contributes umami depth and a slight tang.
- Nutritional yeast: Brings a subtle cheesy note, plus extra nutrients.
- Smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky undertones of the red peppers.
- Ground black pepper & salt: Season to taste and balance the flavors.
- Cooked chicken breast: Adds heartiness and much-needed protein to keep you satisfied.
- Fresh basil: Offers a bright herbal finish that lifts the entire dish.
How to Make High Protein Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. This is crucial for perfectly cooked pasta with just the right bite. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Remember to save about half a cup of the pasta water before draining, as this will help you achieve the perfect sauce consistency later on.
Step 2: Prepare the Aromatics
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes soft and translucent—this usually takes 5 to 7 minutes. This step creates a flavorful base by softening the onion’s natural sweetness before adding garlic, which you’ll cook for just a minute or two to avoid bitterness and bring out its mellow fragrance.
Step 3: Combine Roasted Red Peppers
Now it’s time for the core flavor hit. Add the chopped roasted red peppers to the skillet and stir them in. Let this mixture cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the smoky sweetness of the red peppers to blend beautifully with the aromatic onion and garlic, building a rich flavor foundation for your creamy sauce.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the low-fat Greek yogurt and unsweetened almond milk. This combination makes the sauce luxuriously creamy without being heavy. Next, add the Parmesan cheese and nutritional yeast, stirring until everything is smoothly incorporated. To deepen the flavor, sprinkle in the smoked paprika, ground black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Keep stirring so that the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Add Protein and Adjust Consistency
Now stir in the shredded cooked chicken breast. This not only boosts the protein content but also adds body to the dish, making it wonderfully satisfying. If you find the sauce a bit thick, slowly stir in your reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time. This little trick helps loosen up the sauce to coat the pasta gorgeously without losing any creaminess.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly to make sure every strand of pasta is drenched in that rich, roasted red pepper creaminess. Let it cook for 2 to 3 more minutes so the pasta can soak up the sauce, intensifying the flavors before removing from heat.
Step 7: Final Touch with Fresh Basil
Sprinkle chopped fresh basil right over the warm pasta and give it one last light stir. This simple addition adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color that makes the dish look as amazing as it tastes.
How to Serve High Protein Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
When serving this pasta, a little extra Parmesan or fresh basil sprinkled on top really elevates the presentation and flavor. For added crunch and a burst of green, toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts make wonderful garnishes as well.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or a simple side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. These sides balance the creaminess of the dish with fresh, bright flavors and textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, consider plating the pasta in shallow bowls and adding a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or balsamic glaze on top. You could also bake it briefly with a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan for a golden, bubbly finish that feels extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This High Protein Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making your next meal just as delicious.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers. Keep in mind that the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon thawing, but it will still taste great. Freeze for up to 2 months for optimum freshness.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of almond milk or water if needed to loosen the sauce. This will help recapture the creamy texture without drying out the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber, you can swap it for any pasta you like. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure it’s cooked to your preference.
Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
Yes, you can make this dish vegan by substituting Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt, and replacing chicken with chickpeas or tofu. Use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast to maintain that cheesy umami flavor.
Can I roast my own red peppers for the recipe?
Definitely! Roasting fresh red peppers at home adds an intense smoky-sweet flavor that canned versions can’t quite match. Simply broil peppers until charred, then peel and chop them before adding to the sauce.
How high is the protein content in this recipe?
This dish is packed with protein thanks to the combination of Greek yogurt, chicken breast, whole wheat pasta, and nutritional yeast, making it perfect for those looking to fuel muscles or stay fuller longer.
Can I prepare any steps in advance?
You can chop the onions, garlic, and basil ahead of time, and even cook the chicken in advance to reduce prep time when you’re ready to make the pasta. Just keep everything refrigerated until use.
Final Thoughts
This High Protein Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—rich, nourishing, and full of exciting flavors. Whether you’re fueling up after a workout or just want a cozy meal, it’s a fantastic recipe to have in your repertoire. I highly encourage you to give it a try and enjoy every creamy, smoky, protein-packed bite!
Print
High Protein Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This High Protein Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is a wholesome, flavorful dish featuring whole wheat pasta tossed in a rich, creamy sauce made from roasted red peppers, Greek yogurt, and Parmesan cheese. Enhanced with sautéed onions, garlic, smoked paprika, and shredded cooked chicken breast, this meal strikes a perfect balance of protein and vibrant flavors. Fresh basil adds a fragrant finish, making it a nutritious and satisfying choice for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta and Protein
- 2 cups whole wheat pasta
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large roasted red peppers, peeled and chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Dairy and Dairy Alternatives
- 1 cup low-fat Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add 2 cups of whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Drain Pasta: Drain the cooked pasta and set it aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.
- Sauté Onions: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Add minced garlic cloves to the skillet and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add Roasted Red Peppers: Stir in the peeled and chopped roasted red peppers and cook the mixture for 3 to 4 minutes to combine flavors.
- Add Yogurt and Almond Milk: Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 cup of low-fat Greek yogurt. Pour in 1/2 cup of unsweetened almond milk, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate Cheeses: Add grated Parmesan cheese and nutritional yeast to the skillet, stirring thoroughly to blend.
- Season Sauce: Sprinkle smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt over the sauce and stir well to combine all seasonings.
- Add Chicken: Stir in the shredded cooked chicken breast, mixing evenly throughout the creamy sauce.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until desired creaminess is reached.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Simmer: Cook the pasta and sauce together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors.
- Finish with Basil: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the pasta, and gently stir to incorporate.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency for a smoother texture.
- Roasted red peppers can be homemade or store-bought for convenience.
- Use low-fat Greek yogurt to keep the dish creamy yet healthier.
- To make it vegetarian, omit the chicken and increase the nutritional yeast for extra flavor.
- For extra spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when seasoning the sauce.
