High Protein Entrees and Pasta

A quick main course is easy to get wrong on a low calorie plan. Many convenient meals are light on protein, or heavy on carbs. This page sorts the options here by type, so you can pick a hot meal that suits your day.

Sloppy Joe style entrees

Sloppy joe is a savory, saucy dish that does well in a microwave pouch. It suits people who want something that tastes like a proper dinner and fills the plate. The HealthSmart version is described as a warm, savory entree that comes together in the microwave. It suits anyone who wants classic flavor without much fuss.

If you skip meat, there is a vegetarian take on the same idea. The Weight Loss Systems Vegetarian Sloppy Joe is made for people who want that familiar flavor without the meat. You add water and microwave it, so it works at a desk or in a kitchen.

Cheesy pasta comfort meals

This is the biggest group here, and it suits anyone who misses creamy pasta. Mac and cheese comes in a few forms. ProtiDiet describes its Mac and Cheese Protein Pasta as creamy cheese sauce with tender pasta, ready in about 10 minutes. Weight Loss Systems offers its own Macaroni and Cheese, which comes in a 3 box size. That is handy if you want to try it before committing to a larger box.

Nacho cheese is the bolder option. The Weight Loss Systems Nacho Cheese Pasta is described as a warm, cheesy entree with bold flavor. It suits people who find plain cheese a bit mild.

Creamy and savory pasta dishes

If cheese sauce is not what you are after, there are other flavors. Fettuccini Alfredo from Weight Loss Systems is a rich, creamy sauce on tender noodles. ProtiDiet Carbonara Protein Pasta offers classic carbonara flavor in a creamy sauce. Both suit people who want a more restaurant style dinner.

Cheesesteak Pasta from Weight Loss Systems takes a different route. It brings cheesesteak flavor to a quick-prep pasta dish, and suits anyone who wants something meaty tasting and filling.

Hearty chili

Chili is the one entree here that leans on beans and spice rather than pasta or sauce. HealthSmart Vegetable Chili with Beans is described as bold and hearty, ready in minutes for lunch or dinner. It suits people who want a savory, spoonable meal and who like a bit of heat.

Protein mashed potatoes

Mashed potatoes are more of a side than a main, so think of them as something to pair with a protein you already have. Proti-Thin describes its version as a warm, comforting side dish with protein. HealthSmart offers a Buttery version with classic flavor and a boost of protein. Both are quick-prep packets and suit anyone who wants a soft, warm texture.

How to choose

• Check the nutrition panel for protein, calories and carbs. The descriptions here talk about fit, but the label gives the numbers.
• Decide whether you want a main or a side. The mashed potatoes are described as sides, and the rest as entrees.
• Pick a flavor you will look forward to. You are more likely to keep eating it.
• Look at the box size. The 3 box options are easier to sample, and the 7 box options cover a week.
• If you avoid meat, the vegetarian sloppy joe and the vegetable chili are the clearest matches by name.
• Follow the preparation directions on the pack. Most are add water and microwave.

Questions people ask

Are these quick to make?

The descriptions say so. Several are add water and microwave, and the ProtiDiet Mac and Cheese is listed as ready in about 10 minutes.

Can I eat the mashed potatoes as a meal?

They are described as side dishes. You can pair them with another protein source if you want a fuller plate.

How do I compare two products?

Put the protein, calories and carbs side by side on the label, then compare cost per serving. Flavor matters too, since you will eat several.

Is it worth trying a small box first?

If you are unsure about a flavor, the 3 box options let you try it without buying a full week.