Low-Calorie Pasta Recipes That Don’t Skimp on Flavor – Swap high-calorie ingredients for healthier alternatives and enjoy guilt-free pasta! Let’s dig in!
From Classic to Creative: Low-Calorie Pasta Recipes Under ~400 Calories!
If you’re trying to cut calories and eat healthier, don’t count pasta out just yet!
Here is a recipe round-up of delicious low-calorie pasta recipes to let you enjoy your favorite dish without feeling guilty.
Every pasta recipe in this list is under 400 calories ( some even under 200 calories) and is warm, hearty, and satisfying without compromising flavor.
Why You’ll Love Low-Calorie Pasta Recipes
💜 Healthier Pasta Alternatives
Now, you don’t have to skip pasta just because of the calories! These pasta recipes are just as delicious but without the excess calories. Made with whole grain or alternative flours like chickpea or lentil, they’re loaded with more fiber and protein than traditional pasta recipes. Enjoy your favorite pasta dishes without the guilt!
💛 Super Versatile
From zesty, herby pasta recipes to low-calorie creamy pasta dishes, hearty casserole pasta bakes to healthy pasta salads, there’s something for everyone. The options are endless for you to choose from!
💜 Family-Friendly Recipes
Making it just for yourself or feeding a large crowd, these low calorie pasta recipes will be loved by everyone! They’re super easy to customize and easily scalable for the whole family. Plus, these are healthy, nutritious, and downright delicious!
💛 Satisfying & Delicious Plate of Food
Despite being lower in calories and healthier than traditional pasta recipes, these dishes are extremely delicious and flavorful. They won’t disappoint you a bit!
Common Mistakes to Avoid ❌
Overcooking Your Pasta 🍝
Al-dente is the way to go! One of the biggest mistakes when making pasta is overcooking it, which gives it a mushy texture. Aim for chewy pasta every time! If in doubt, always follow the package instructions to the letter. Taste-test your pasta to check if it is cooked al dente—firm to the bite.
Not Adding Protein 🍗
Skipping on protein is a big no-no! Adding protein to your pasta makes it healthier, more balanced, and satisfying. Think of lean proteins such as grilled juicy shrimp, roasted chicken, or pan-fried tofu or tempeh.
Choosing High-Calorie Toppings 🥜
If you are cooking low-calorie pasta but topping it off with heavy, calorie-rich add-ons like cheese, cream, or fatty meats, then the purpose of having low-calorie pasta is defeated! If you must indulge, opt for lighter toppings such as fat-free cheese, lean proteins, grilled veggies, nuts, seeds, and more.
FAQs About Low-Calorie Pasta Recipes ❓
Q: Are these pasta recipes suitable for meal prep?
A: Yes, many of these low-calorie pasta recipes are suitable for meal prep. You can prepare them in advance for lunches or dinners throughout the week. Read the recipes to learn more about their shelf life and reheating methods.
Q: How to include protein in my low-calorie pasta dishes?
A: Boost the protein content of your pasta by adding lean proteins like grilled shrimp, roasted or poached chicken, pan-fried tofu, or tempeh. You can use these proteins as toppings on your pasta or cook them together.
Whether you’re counting calories, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, or simply looking for lighter meal options without sacrificing flavor.
These easy healthy pasta recipes are sure to become your new favorites.
Indulge in your favorite pasta dish without guilt with these light, refreshing, and healthy low-calorie pasta recipes!
Baked Spaghetti Squash Casserole
Recipe by Healthful Blondie
Ready in ~ Prep: 5 mins Cook: 10 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ A satisfying pasta dish that stays under 400 calories, this Lemon Caper Pasta is a low-calorie dream come true with its tangy citrus flavor, briny capers, and light sauce. Bright, zesty, and perfect for guilt-free comfort food!
Get the Recipe for Creamy Lemon Caper Pasta!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 368kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 16g
Healthy Mushroom Alfredo Pasta Bake
Recipe by Pinch of Yum
Ready in ~ Prep: 40 mins
Yields ~ 10 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Packed with tender mushrooms, a lighter Alfredo sauce, and a cheesy topping, this Healthy Mushroom Alfredo Pasta Bake is a creamy, comforting dish with all the rich flavors—without the guilt!
Get the Recipe for Healthy Mushroom Alfredo Pasta Bake!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 336 kcal
Carbohydrates: 38.8g
Protein: 14.3g
Tuna Pasta Salad
Recipe by Goodie Goodie Lunch Box
Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins Cook: 10 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Made with tender pasta, flaky tuna, crunchy veggies, and a creamy dressing, this light yet satisfying dish is perfect for a quick meal or a refreshing side.
Get the Recipe for Tuna Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 131kcal
Carbohydrates: 16.5g
Protein: 6.2g
One-Pot Skinny Pasta Primavera
Recipe by Foodie Crush
Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins Cook: 20 mins
Yields ~ 6 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Packed with fresh veggies and tender pasta, all tossed in a light, flavorful sauce, this vibrant, low-calorie dish is full of flavor without the extra calories!
Get the Recipe for One-Pot Skinny Pasta Primavera!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 263 kcal
Carbohydrates: 39g
Protein: 12g
Pasta Bolognese
Recipe by Feel Good Foodie
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Cook: 45 mins
Yields ~ 8 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ This slow-cooked Pasta Bolognese, under 400 calories, offers all the rich, savory flavors of traditional Bolognese with a lighter twist. A satisfying and healthy option for pasta lovers!
Get the Recipe for Pasta Bolognese!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 369 kcal
Carbohydrates: 46g
Protein: 21g
Cajun Chicken Pasta
Recipe by Skinny Taste
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Cook: 20 mins
Yields ~ 5 servings
Why You’ll Love it ~ a creamy light Cajun sauce pasta with 26 grams of protein and six grams of fiber
Get the Recipe for Cajun Chicken Pasta!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 324 kcal
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 26g
Greek Chickpea Pasta Salad
Recipe by Healthful Blondie
Ready in ~ 15 mins
Yields ~ 6 servings
Why You’ll Love it ~ A high-in-protein, gluten-free, and healthy pasta recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes!
Get the Recipe for Greek Chickpea Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 271 kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 15g
Sweet Potato Spaghetti
Recipe by Cotter Crunch
Ready in ~ 20 mins
Yields ~ 3 medium servings or 2 large servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ spiralized sweet potatoes cooked in a zesty Italian tomato sauce within 20 minutes!
Get the Recipe for Sweet Potato Spaghetti!
Nutritional Info
Calories: approx 175-220 kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 8g
Creamy Broccoli Pasta
Recipe by Everyday Healthy Recipe
Ready in ~ Prep: 5 mins Cook: 9 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ is a simple vegetarian dish that is low in fat, and comes together in under 15 minutes!
Get the Recipe for Creamy Broccoli Pasta!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 389kcal
Carbohydrates: 54g
Protein: 9g
Angel Hair Pasta with Zucchini and Tomatoes
Recipe by Skinny Taste
Ready in ~ Prep: 5 mins Cook: 10 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ perfect for meatless meals and family dinners as it takes less than 20 minutes to make.
Get the Recipe for Angel Hair Pasta!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 254 kcal
Carbohydrates: 51g
Protein: 7.5g
Veggie Spaghetti
Recipe by Inspired Taste
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Cook: 25 mins
Yields ~ 4 – 6 servings
Why You’ll Love it ~ loaded with nutritious veggies and cooked in a delicious tomato sauce made completely from scratch.
Get Recipe for Veggie Spaghetti!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 372 kcal
Carbohydrates:56.9g
Protein: 14.5g
Balsamic Strawberry Pasta Salad
Recipe by A Saucy Kitchen
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Cook: 15 mins
Yields ~ 10 servings
Get the Recipe for Balsamic Strawberry Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 302kcal
Carbohydrates: 39g
Protein: 6g
Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
Recipe by The Healthful Ideas
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Cook: 20 mins
Yields ~ 2 to 3 servings
Get the Recipe for Light Asparagus Pasta!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 167kcal
Carbohydrates: 18.7g
Protein: 6.4g
Spinach and Avocado Pasta
Recipe by Healthy Fitness Meals
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Cook: 10 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Why You’ll Love it ~ a creamy vegan avocado and spinach sauce pasta with fresh tomatoes and toasted pine nuts.
Get the Recipe for Spinach and Avocado Pasta!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 399 kcal
Carbohydrates: 59g
Protein: 12g
Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad
Recipe by Lemons and Zest
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Cook: 10 mins
Yields ~ 12 servings
Get the Recipe for Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 357kcal
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 11g
Tahini Pasta
Recipe by Oh My Veggies
Ready in ~ 15 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Why You’ll Love it ~ is a hearty and completely vegan pasta that takes just 20 minutes!
Get the Recipe for Tahini Pasta!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 388 kcal
Carbohydrates: 49g
Protein: 15g
Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Recipe by Healthy Fitness Meals
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Cook: 20 mins
Yields ~ 6 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ delicious, easy to make, with a handful of ingredients.
Get the Recipe for Garlic Shrimp Pasta!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 367 kcal
Carbohydrates: 48g
Protein: 23g
Green Spinach Pasta
Recipe by Ela Vegan
Ready in ~ Prep: 5 mins Cook: 3 mins
Yields ~ 2 servings
Why You’ll Love it ~ is packed with nutrients, garlicky, creamy, and takes just 10 minutes.
Get the Recipe for Green Spinach Pasta!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 148 kcal
Carbohydrates: 13.3
Protein: 6.3g
Vegan Pea & Avocado Pesto Pasta
Recipe by Oh My Veggies
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Cook: 5 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ refreshing pasta made with simple ingredients and takes just 15 minutes.
Get the Recipe for Vegan Pea & Avocado Pesto Pasta!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 372 kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 10g
Garlic Butter Asparagus Pasta
Recipe by Diet Hood
Ready in ~ Prep: 5 mins Cook: 15 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ a 20-minute creamy orzo pasta with fresh asparagus.
Get the Recipe for Garlic Butter Asparagus Pasta!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 295 kcal
Carbohydrates: 33g
Protein: 10g
Mediterranean Pasta
Recipe by Well Plated
Ready in ~ Prep: 5 mins Cook: 15 mins
Yields ~ 4 to 6 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ an all-in-one nutritious meal. Fast, healthy, and easily adaptable!
Get the Recipe for Mediterranean Pasta!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 375 kcal
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 10g
One-Pot BBQ Chicken and Bacon Pasta
Recipe by The Recipe Rebel
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Cook: 30 mins
Yields ~ 5 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Full of smoky and savory flavors, this easy one-pan meal is made by combining tender chicken breast pieces, crispy bits of bacon, and your favorite BBQ sauce!
Get the Recipe for One-Pot BBQ Chicken and Bacon Pasta!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 393cal
Carbohydrates: 41g
Protein: 25g
Shrimp Pasta Primavera
Recipe by Little Broken
Ready in ~ Prep: 20 mins Cook: 20 mins
Yields ~ 6 servings
Get the Recipe for Shrimp Pasta Primavera!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 353kcal
Carbohydrates: 35.4g
Protein: 22.8g
Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
Recipe by Natasha’s Kitchen
Ready in ~ Prep: 20 mins Cook: 30 mins
Yields ~ 12 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ A hearty, one-pot soup inspired by Olive Garden, this comforting Italian dish is made with tender pasta, beans, plenty of veggies, noodles, and lean beef. It is easy to make and perfect for cozy family dinners!
Get the Recipe for Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 204.7kcal
Carbohydrates: 26.01g
Protein: 17.33g
High Protein Pasta Salad
Recipe by My Plantiful Cooking
Ready in ~ 15 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Get the Recipe for High Protein Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 356kcal
Carbohydrates: 46g
Protein: 23g
Greek Pasta Salad
Recipe by The Roasted Root
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Cook: 12 mins
Yields ~ 8 servings
Get the Recipe for Greek Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 319kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 8g
And there you have it—low calorie pasta recipes for you to try!
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