17 Low Calorie Pasta Recipes (+ Healthy Dinners)

And the best part? These options are just as satisfying as any pasta dish out there. Whether you’re counting calories or just want some lighter dinner ideas, I’ve got you covered.

1.Healthy Pesto Pasta

Pesto lovers, rejoice! We’ve got a clever trick to make this tasty sauce a bit lighter without losing its magic. Instead of heavy ingredients like Parmesan and pine nuts, try thinning out your pesto with pasta water.

It’s starchy, salty, and stretches the sauce further. You still get that fresh, herby flavor, just in a slightly lighter way. Plus, each serving clocks in at around 218 calories–so you can enjoy it guilt-free!

2.Garlic Pasta with Veggies and Parmesan

Whole Wheat Spaghetti with Broccoli, Zucchini, and Parmesan Toss fresh broccoli, zucchini, and red onions with whole wheat spaghetti for a vibrant, wholesome dinner.

Top it off with a sprinkle of Parmesan for the perfect finish. This dish offers all the flavor you love, minus the guilt. By choosing whole wheat pasta and adding plenty of veggies, you get a nutritious meal that’s satisfying and delicious.

Ready to serve and packed with fresh flavors, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a lighter, tastier pasta night. Calories per serving: ~363 cals.

3.Low-Fat Garlic Mushroom Pasta

This garlic mushroom pasta is a flavorful twist on a classic dish without the guilt. Made in just 30 minutes, it uses simple ingredients like creme fraiche and Parmesan to create a rich, creamy taste.

With only about 386 calories per serving, it’s a smart, satisfying choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

4.Healthy Baked Feta Pasta (TikTok)

Remember that viral feta pasta everyone’s been talking about? This recipe gives it a fresh, healthier spin. With less oil and low-fat cheese, it’s just as good as the original–actually, it’s better!

Why? Because you can enjoy two bowls for just 299 calories. It’s the perfect win-win situation: delicious, satisfying, and guilt-free.

5.Ina Garten Shrimp Scampi

Dive into a light and flavorful meal with this healthy shrimp scampi pasta. It’s quick, fancy, and hassle-free! Juicy shrimp provides a lean and satisfying protein boost, while the sauce is simple yet packed with delicious garlic butter flavor.

Want to make it even healthier? Just swap the pasta for zoodles. Each serving is around 325 calories, and it’s ready in no time!

6.Very Low-Calorie Lasagna with Zucchini

Here’s a healthier twist on lasagna that’s hard to resist. We’re swapping regular pasta for zucchini, a great gluten-free alternative that’s also super healthy.

Layers of zucchini, fat-free cheese, and lean ground turkey (99% lean!) come together with a side of 50-calorie spaghetti sauce. These smart swaps bring the calorie count way down–from over 350 to just under 100!

Plus, you’ll get a whopping 15 grams of protein and only 1.4 grams of fat. It’s a guilt-free, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for a healthier lifestyle.

Calories per serving? Just about 98–so go ahead and enjoy!

7.Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic and Herbs

Angel hair pasta recipes are a breeze to make, and this one is a standout with its garlic and fresh herbs. Imagine tender noodles coated in a creamy blend of olive oil, butter, and parmesan, topped with fresh tomatoes for a burst of brightness.

Whether you serve it with chicken, beef, or seafood, it’s sure to disappear fast. Want to keep it lighter? Ditch the parmesan and sprinkle on some nutritional yeast instead.

Each serving clocks in at around 353 calories.

8.Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

Indulge in a guilt-free version of chicken fettuccine alfredo that’s light on calories but big on flavor. This dish features tender grilled chicken and a creamy alfredo sauce made with just a touch of butter, a hint of garlic, 1% milk, chicken broth, a sprinkle of flour, and real parmesan.

The best part? No heavy cream is needed–it’s still rich and creamy! With only ~286 calories per serving, you can enjoy this classic Italian favorite while keeping it waistline-friendly.

9.Skinny Pasta Primavera

Looking for a quick and healthy weeknight meal? This vibrant pasta dish is packed with colorful veggies and a touch of low-fat cream cheese for a light yet satisfying flavor.

Ready in no time, it’s perfect for a light dinner or a satisfying lunch. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder–less cleanup and more flavor! At just 240 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free, nutrient-packed delight that’s as easy as it is delicious.

10.Garlic Parmesan Kale Pasta

Garlic Parmesan Kale Pasta is the unexpected hit you didn’t see coming! This dish brings together whole wheat angel hair pasta, curly kale, aromatic garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, all tied together with a touch of butter.

The result? A hearty, flavorful meal that’s sure to delight. Plus, this recipe is super flexible–swap out the angel hair for any whole-wheat pasta you have on hand.

Not a kale fan? No problem! Substitute it with spinach, broccoli, or even sautéed mushrooms. Here’s the magic: it’s ready in just 15 minutes, and it’s packed with nutrients to keep you going.

Each serving comes in at about 373 calories, making it a guilt-free option for lunch or dinner. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!

11.Skinny Spaghetti Casserole

Imagine a dish that’s the best of both worlds–skinny spaghetti casserole is here to steal your heart. It’s like lasagna and baked spaghetti had a baby, and it’s a total game-changer.

This recipe proves you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for a leaner meal. We’re talkin’ 96% lean ground beef, shredded reduced-fat mozzarella, whipped Greek cream cheese, and fat-free ricotta.

All the taste, none of the guilt. Plus, it clocks in at just 319 calories per serving. Talk about a win-win!

12.Low-Calorie Pasta Salad

Craving fresh, zesty pasta salad that won’t weigh you down? Look no further! This chickpea pasta salad is one of my go-to recipes for a reason. It’s a Mediterranean-inspired summer staple packed with crisp veggies like bell peppers and cucumbers, all tossed in a tangy olive oil dressing that’s simply irresistible.

Whether you’re prepping for a BBQ side or a light appetizer, this salad always hits the spot. Plus, it’s a guilt-free option at just ~198 calories per serving!

13.Healthy Baked Ziti

This healthier baked ziti is the ultimate Italian comfort food without the extra calories. Layers of pasta, rich red sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella come together for a dish that’s as satisfying as ever.

The best part? It’s been given a lighter, healthier twist that doesn’t skip on flavor. You get the best of both worlds–classic cheesy goodness with fewer calories.

Each serving is about 382 calories, making it a guilt-free option for a delicious meal.

14.Easiest Pasta and Broccoli Recipe

This pasta and broccoli dish is a family favorite, even the kids will love it! With just five ingredients and one pot, you can have dinner ready in 15 minutes.

The secret? Overcooking the broccoli. By boiling the pasta and broccoli together, then mixing in garlic and cheese, you create a creamy, pesto-like sauce.

The broccoli blends in so smoothly that even picky eaters won’t notice. Plus, it’s a nutritious option with only about 289 calories per serving. Quick, easy, and delicious–what more could you ask for?

15.Carbone Spicy Rigatoni

Bring a taste of NYC to your kitchen with a healthier twist on Carbone’s spicy rigatoni! This dish is all about bold flavors, with a zesty tomato sauce and perfectly cooked pasta that’s sure to hit the spot.

The best part? We’ve made it a bit lighter. Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt and cut back on butter and oil–smart moves that keep the flavor while making it more balanced.

At around 364 calories per serving, it’s not super low-cal, but trust us, every bite is worth it!

16.Low-Calorie Pasta

Enjoy a delicious, low-calorie meal without giving up real pasta! This penne dish is creamy and rich, thanks to the cottage cheese and plenty of gooey mozzarella.

We’re using real penne here–no substitutes, just the good stuff. Each serving is about 200 calories, making it a satisfying yet guilt-free option for pasta lovers.

17.Low-Calorie Tuna Pasta Salad

Looking for a lighter take on tuna pasta salad? This version skips the mayo but keeps all the flavor! It’s a gluten-free, protein-packed option that’s perfect for any meal.

While it might not be the healthiest option on the table, it’s a delicious choice for lunch or dinner. With only about 382 calories per serving, it’s a tasty way to keep things balanced.

One bite, and you’ll be hooked!