Creamy Protein-Packed Pasta Bowl
A creamy, protein-rich pasta dish that combines tender pasta, sautéed zucchini, wilted spinach, and sliced chicken sausage in a rich cream sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Paleo
Ingredients
Scale
- 12–16 oz dried pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 3–4 cups fresh spinach (packed)
- 12–14 oz pre-cooked chicken sausage, sliced
- 1/2–3/4 cup heavy cream (or Greek yogurt with milk)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4–1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set pasta aside.
- Heat 1–2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced zucchini and sauté for 3–4 minutes until tender and browned on the edges.
- Add the fresh spinach and sliced chicken sausage to the skillet, cooking for 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sausage is heated through.
- Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the drained pasta and pour in the cream. Stir gently and warm for 1–2 minutes, adding reserved pasta water if necessary to adjust sauce consistency.
- Taste and season with salt and black pepper. Stir in Parmesan if using, and serve immediately.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Can be frozen but may change texture upon reheating.