High Protein Creamy Ham Pasta

Indulge in the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition with this High Protein Creamy Ham Pasta recipe! Featuring whole grain or high-protein fettuccine, tender diced ham, and a velvety sauce made with Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese, this dish is a wholesome take on classic comfort food. The addition of fresh spinach boosts the nutrient content, while a touch of lemon juice and red pepper flakes brightens the dish with a subtle kick. Ready in just 35 minutes, this satisfying pasta is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, offering a hearty and protein-packed meal the whole family will love.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 8 ounces whole grain fettuccine or high-protein pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces ham, diced
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup greek yogurt
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cups spinach, fresh and chopped
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole grain fettuccine or high-protein pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3

Add the diced ham to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it starts to brown slightly.

Step 4

Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Greek yogurt, ensuring it is well combined. Be careful not to let the mixture boil, as this could cause the yogurt to curdle.

Step 6

Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until it melts into the sauce, creating a creamy consistency.

Step 7

Fold in the chopped spinach and let it wilt for about 1-2 minutes.

Step 8

Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, adjusting according to taste.

Step 9

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the creamy ham sauce.

Step 10

Stir in the lemon juice to brighten the flavors just before serving.

Step 11

Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1233.3 grams (1233.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1802

Total Fat 58.60g	75%
Saturated Fat 24.10g	121%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.30g
Cholesterol 201mg	67%
Sodium 5569mg	242%
Total Carbohydrate 192.50g	70%
Dietary Fiber 20.70g	74%
Total Sugars 16.40g
Protein 130.70g	261%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1313mg	101%
Iron 14mg	79%
Potassium 2487mg	53%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 29.0%

Protein: 28.7%

Carbs: 42.3%