Buffalo Alfredo Pasta: A High-Protein, Guilt-Free Comfort Food

Looking for a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that satisfies cravings without derailing your health goals? This Buffalo Alfredo Pasta is the perfect fusion of comfort and spice! Packed with protein and made with healthier swaps, this dish delivers all the decadence of Alfredo with a zesty Buffalo twist. It’s a must-try recipe, ideal for meal preppers and pasta lovers alike.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 320

• Protein: 40g

• Carbs: 28g

• Fat: 6g

• Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 22 oz chicken breast

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp chicken bouillon

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp white pepper

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz Banza protein pasta (or your favorite high-protein pasta)

• 1 1/2 cups low-fat cottage cheese

• 2 oz low-fat cream cheese

• 1/2 cup low-fat milk

• 1/2 cup Buffalo sauce (adjust to your heat preference)

• 2 tbsp ranch seasoning

For Cooking:

• Olive oil cooking spray

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Season the chicken breast evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, chicken bouillon, paprika, white pepper, salt, and black pepper.

• Spray a large skillet with olive oil cooking spray and heat over medium heat.

• Add the chicken to the skillet and cook thoroughly, about 6–8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

• Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and dice it into bite-sized pieces.

2. Make the Buffalo Alfredo Sauce:

• In a blender, combine the cottage cheese, cream cheese, low-fat milk, Buffalo sauce, and ranch seasoning.

• Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set aside.

3. Cook the Pasta:

• Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.

• Add the Banza protein pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

4. Combine:

• Return the cooked pasta to the pot or a large skillet over low heat.

• Pour the Buffalo Alfredo sauce over the pasta and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.

• Add the diced chicken on top, mix gently, and divide into 4 equal servings.

5. Enjoy:

• Serve immediately and savor the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors!

Additional Notes

• Buffalo Sauce Heat Level: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with 1/4 cup of Buffalo sauce and adjust to your liking.

• Pasta Options: While Banza protein pasta is a fantastic high-protein option, you can substitute it with whole wheat, gluten-free, or traditional pasta based on your preference.

• Cheese Substitutions: Low-fat cottage cheese and cream cheese keep the sauce creamy yet light, but feel free to use full-fat versions if desired.

• Meal Prep Tip: This recipe reheats well! Store portions in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.

Meal Prep Safety

• Storage: Let the pasta cool completely before placing it in meal prep containers. Always store in the fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below.

• Reheating: When reheating, ensure the dish reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to maintain food safety.

• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

This Buffalo Alfredo Pasta is a game-changer for anyone who wants indulgent flavors without the guilt. Whether you’re looking for a post-workout meal, an easy weeknight dinner, or a meal prep solution, this recipe has you covered! Let me know how you like it!