Creamy High-Protein Italian Pasta with Spinach and Mushrooms

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Okay, confession time: I used to despise mushrooms.

But recently, I decided it was time to grow up (haha!) and give them another chance.

Spoiler alert: I’m glad I did.

They’ve gone from “weird squishy thing” to one of my favourite ingredients in my kitchen, and this Creamy High-Protein Italian Pasta with Spinach and Mushrooms is proof of that transformation.

If you’re on the fence about mushrooms, trust me—this dish might just change your mind.

It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with protein, thanks to the combo of high-protein pasta, lean turkey, and Parmesan cheese.

Why I Love This Recipe

This meal feels indulgent but is secretly pretty healthy.

The turkey adds a hearty, satisfying element, while the mushrooms bring in this earthy depth of flavor that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Plus, spinach sneaks in some greens without being overpowering (win for picky eaters in your house—or yourself!).

Now, let’s get cooking!

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Ingredients

• 8 oz high-protein pasta (think chickpea, lentil, or whole-grain pasta)
• 1 lb lean ground turkey
• 16 oz white button mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup low-fat milk
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Italian herbs (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your high-protein pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set it aside. This will be the cozy bed for all the creamy, delicious toppings we’re about to make.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute. That smell? It’s the beginning of something magical.

Step 3: Brown the Turkey

Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks, making sure it’s evenly browned. This is where your protein boost comes in!

Step 4: Mushrooms Time

Here’s where my former nemesis takes center stage. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown. Don’t rush this step—it’s worth it for that deep, savoury flavour.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the milk and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. The sauce should start to cling to the turkey and mushrooms, creating a creamy, dreamy base.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together so the sauce coats each piece. Stir in the fresh spinach and watch it wilt down into the mix.

Step 7: Cheese, Please!

Finally, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and stir until it melts into the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs if you’re feeling fancy.

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Serve and Enjoy

Dish it up hot and, if you’re like me, add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan on top because why not?

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Homemade High-Protein Pasta Recipe

If you’re feeling ambitious (or just want bragging rights), you can make your own high-protein pasta. Here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chickpea flour
• 1/4 cup vital wheat gluten
• 2 eggs
• Water (as needed)

Instructions:

1. Mix the chickpea flour and vital wheat gluten in a bowl.
2. Create a well in the center, crack in the eggs, and slowly mix them into the flour.
3. Add small amounts of water if the dough is too dry, and knead it until smooth and elastic (about 10 minutes).
4. Let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
5. Roll it out and cut it into your desired pasta shapes.
6. Cook in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until al dente.

I am a pasta lover and I like to eat it at least a few times a week. But I am also getting married next year so I have been on my fitness journey.

I have been looking for high-protein recipes and this is one of my favourites.