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!

Creamy High-Protein Italian Pasta with Spinach and Mushrooms

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings 4

Ingredients

  

• 8 oz high-protein pasta 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

Instructions

 

• Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about one minute.
• Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until evenly browned.
• Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and begin to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
• Pour in the milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly in the sauce. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
• Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until fully melted. Season with salt, pepper, and optional Italian herbs to taste.
• Serve immediately with additional Parmesan if desired. Enjoy!

Serve and Enjoy

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

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.