Which Meat Is Good for Pasta? A Complete Guide to the Best Meat Pairings

Introduction

Which meat is good for pasta? Whether you’re making a hearty Bolognese, a creamy Alfredo, or a seafood linguine, the right meat choice can enhance both the flavor and texture of your dish. Choosing the best meat depends on the sauce, pasta type, and your personal taste.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best meats for pasta, traditional Italian choices, high-protein options, and ideal pairings for different pasta sauces. Whether you’re making spaghetti, lasagna, or carbonara, this article will help you find the perfect meat to complement your pasta.

Best Meat Options for Pasta

Not all meats work well with pasta, so it’s important to choose the right type based on the sauce and pasta variety. Here are the best meat options for pasta dishes:

1.1 Beef: A Hearty and Flavorful Choice

Beef is a classic choice for pasta, providing a rich and meaty taste. It works well in various styles:

• Ground beef – Perfect for Bolognese and other tomato-based sauces. It creates a thick, meaty texture that clings well to pasta.
• Steak strips – Ideal for gourmet pasta dishes like steak fettuccine, often paired with creamy or garlic butter sauces.
• Beef meatballs – A must-have for classic spaghetti dishes, adding both flavor and texture to marinara sauces.

Best Pasta Pairings for Beef:

1.2 Chicken: A Lean and Versatile Protein

Chicken is a great option for those looking for lean protein. It works in various pasta recipes:

• Grilled or roasted chicken – A light yet tasty option for dishes like chicken Alfredo and chicken pesto pasta.
• Shredded chicken – Works well in creamy sauces, making the pasta extra rich and comforting.
• Chicken sausage – A healthier alternative to pork sausage, adding spice and flavor to pasta dishes.

Best Pasta Pairings for Chicken:

1.3 Pork: Rich and Savory Flavor

Pork adds bold and savory flavors to pasta, often used in traditional Italian dishes:

• Italian sausage – Perfect for zesty pasta dishes like spicy Arrabbiata or sausage rigatoni.
• Pancetta and bacon – A staple for carbonara, adding a crispy, smoky taste.
• Slow-cooked pork – Used in ragu sauces, creating a deep, rich flavor.

Best Pasta Pairings for Pork:

1.4 Seafood: A Light and Delicate Option

Seafood is a great alternative to red meat, bringing a fresh, ocean-inspired taste to pasta dishes:

• Shrimp and scallops – Popular for seafood pasta, often paired with light cream or garlic butter sauces.
• Salmon – Works well with creamy and pesto-based pasta, adding richness.
• Clams and mussels – Essential for traditional Italian seafood pasta dishes like Linguine alle Vongole.

Best Pasta Pairings for Seafood:

The Best Meat for Different Pasta Sauces

The type of sauce you choose plays a major role in determining which meat pairs best with your pasta. Some meats work better with tomato-based sauces, while others shine in creamy or pesto-based dishes. Here’s how to match them:

2.1 Best Meat for Tomato-Based Pasta Sauces

Tomato-based sauces, such as marinara, Bolognese, and arrabbiata, are bold and tangy, making them perfect for rich, hearty meats.

Top Meats for Tomato-Based Sauces:

• Ground Beef & Pork – Essential for Bolognese, offering deep, savory flavors.
• Italian Sausage – Adds spice and zest, perfect for spicy arrabbiata or pomodoro sauce.
• Meatballs – A classic pairing with marinara sauce for spaghetti.
• Slow-Cooked Pork – Works well in red wine ragu, creating a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Best Pasta Pairings:

👉 Looking for hearty pasta dishes? Check out these amazing Steak Pasta Recipes.

2.2 Best Meat for Creamy Pasta Sauces

Cream-based sauces like Alfredo, Carbonara, and creamy garlic sauce pair best with leaner meats that don’t overpower the delicate flavors.

Top Meats for Creamy Sauces:

• Grilled Chicken – A perfect match for Alfredo or creamy garlic pasta.
• Bacon & Pancetta – Essential for carbonara, adding a crispy, smoky taste.
• Shrimp – Works well with creamy seafood pasta like fettuccine Alfredo.
• Salmon – Adds a rich, buttery taste to creamy lemon or white sauce pasta.

Best Pasta Pairings:

👉 Discover how steak can also be a great pairing for creamy pasta dishes: Steak Pasta Recipes.

2.3 Best Meat for Pesto and Oil-Based Sauces

Pesto and oil-based sauces are light and herbaceous, requiring meats that complement rather than overpower them.

Top Meats for Pesto & Oil-Based Sauces:

• Grilled Chicken – Works well in chicken pesto pasta.
• Steak Strips – Adds a hearty touch to pesto tagliatelle.
• Shrimp – Enhances garlic butter and pesto sauces.
• Italian Sausage – A great addition for a bold, flavorful kick.

Best Pasta Pairings:

👉 For more meaty pasta inspiration, check out Steak Pasta Recipes.

What Protein Is Best for Pasta?

Protein is a crucial part of a balanced meal, and pasta dishes can be a great source of protein when paired with the right meat. Whether you’re looking for high-protein options, lean meats, or even plant-based alternatives, there are plenty of choices to boost your meal’s nutritional value.

3.1 High-Protein Meats for Pasta

If you’re looking for protein-packed meats to pair with pasta, here are some of the best options:

Chicken (Lean & Versatile)

Chicken is one of the best high-protein options for pasta. It’s lean, mild in flavor, and pairs well with almost any sauce.

• Grilled chicken adds a smoky touch to creamy pasta dishes.
• Shredded chicken blends seamlessly into rich, cheesy sauces.
• Chicken sausage is a great alternative to pork sausage, offering plenty of protein with less fat.

Lean Beef & Steak

Beef is protein-rich and full of flavor, making it an excellent choice for heartier pasta dishes.

• Ground beef is a staple in Bolognese and lasagna, offering a meaty texture with every bite.
• Steak strips pair beautifully with creamy and oil-based sauces, adding a gourmet touch.

👉 Looking for a delicious steak pasta recipe? Check out Steak Pasta Recipes.

Seafood: Light Yet Packed with Protein

If you want a lighter yet high-protein option, seafood is a fantastic choice.

• Shrimp is packed with protein and works well with garlic butter, pesto, and creamy sauces.
• Salmon adds healthy omega-3 fats while providing a rich, buttery texture.
• Clams and mussels give pasta a traditional Italian seafood twist.

3.2 Plant-Based Protein Options for Pasta

If you’re vegetarian or simply looking to reduce meat consumption, there are plenty of plant-based protein sources that work great with pasta.

Tofu & Tempeh

Tofu and tempeh are excellent substitutes for meat in pasta dishes.

• Crispy tofu cubes can be tossed into stir-fried pasta dishes.
• Tempeh crumbles mimic ground meat and absorb sauces well.

Lentils & Beans

Lentils and beans are a great way to boost protein in pasta dishes.

• Lentils work well in vegetarian Bolognese.
• Chickpeas add texture and protein to oil-based pasta dishes.

Meat Alternatives

Beyond Meat and other plant-based meat substitutes can replace traditional meats in nearly any pasta dish, from spaghetti to lasagna.

Which Protein Should You Choose?

• For a hearty, filling pasta? Try beef, steak, or Italian sausage.
• For a lean, healthy option? Go with chicken or seafood.
• For a vegetarian alternative? Use lentils, tofu, or Beyond Meat.

👉 Want to explore more meaty pasta recipes? Check out Steak Pasta Recipes.

What Meat Do Italians Use in Pasta?

Italian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and traditional cooking techniques. Meat plays a major role in many classic pasta dishes, and Italians often use specific types of meat that enhance the overall taste and authenticity of the dish.

4.1 Traditional Italian Meats for Pasta

Beef & Veal (Classic & Hearty)

Beef and veal are essential in slow-cooked pasta sauces like:

• Ragù alla Bolognese – A slow-simmered sauce made with ground beef and veal, cooked with tomatoes, onions, and red wine.
• Lasagna Bolognese – Features layers of pasta, ground veal, beef, and pork, blended with creamy béchamel sauce.

👉 Want to try a meaty pasta dish? Check out Steak Pasta Recipes.

Pork (Rich & Flavorful)

Pork is widely used in Italian pasta, particularly in:

• Carbonara – Made with guanciale (cured pork cheek), eggs, cheese, and black pepper.
• Amatriciana – Features guanciale cooked in a rich tomato sauce.
• Salsiccia Pasta – Italian sausage (salsiccia) is used in hearty tomato and cream-based sauces.

Seafood (Fresh & Light)

Seafood-based pasta dishes are common in coastal regions of Italy. Popular choices include:

• Linguine alle Vongole – Made with clams in a white wine and garlic sauce.
• Frutti di Mare – A mix of shrimp, mussels, calamari, and clams served over spaghetti.

4.2 Italian Cured Meats in Pasta

Cured meats add depth and umami flavor to pasta dishes. Some of the most popular include:

• Pancetta – Similar to bacon but unsmoked, pancetta is used in creamy pasta dishes like Carbonara.
• Prosciutto – Thinly sliced, it pairs well with light cream sauces and cheese-filled pasta like tortellini.
• Speck – A smoked, cured ham often used in Northern Italian pasta dishes.

Why Do Italians Use These Meats?

Italian pasta recipes focus on quality ingredients, simplicity, and bold flavors. Traditional meats like beef, veal, pork, and seafood are carefully chosen to complement specific pasta and sauces.

If you want to make authentic Italian pasta at home, try using Italian sausage, pancetta, or seafood for a truly delicious experience.

👉 Looking for steak-based pasta ideas? Check out Steak Pasta Recipes.

What Meat Do You Eat with Spaghetti?

Spaghetti is one of the most popular pasta types, and choosing the right meat can transform it into a hearty, flavorful meal. Whether you prefer classic Italian recipes or unique variations, there are plenty of delicious meat options to enhance your spaghetti dish.

5.1 Classic Meat Pairings for Spaghetti

Meatballs (The All-Time Favorite)

No discussion about spaghetti is complete without meatballs. Juicy, tender meatballs made from a mix of ground beef, pork, and breadcrumbs are simmered in a rich marinara sauce and served over spaghetti.

• Traditional Italian-style meatballs use a blend of ground beef and pork, seasoned with garlic, parmesan, and herbs.
• Turkey or chicken meatballs offer a leaner alternative without sacrificing flavor.

👉 Want to try a rich, meaty pasta? Check out Steak Pasta Recipes.

Ground Beef (For a Hearty Sauce)

Ground beef is a staple in spaghetti Bolognese, a meaty tomato sauce slow-cooked with onions, garlic, and herbs. It creates a rich, comforting dish that pairs well with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Italian Sausage (Spicy & Flavorful)

Italian sausage is another fantastic meat for spaghetti. It adds a bold, spicy flavor that works well in both marinara and creamy tomato sauces. You can use:

• Sweet Italian sausage for a mild, savory taste.
• Spicy Italian sausage for extra heat.

5.2 Alternative Meats for Spaghetti

Grilled Chicken (Lean & Protein-Packed)

For a lighter option, grilled or shredded chicken is an excellent choice for spaghetti dishes.

• Works well with creamy or pesto sauces.
• A great way to add protein without heaviness.

Seafood (For a Mediterranean Twist)

If you love seafood pasta, try pairing spaghetti with:

• Shrimp – Delicious in garlic butter or lemon-based sauces.
• Clams & Mussels – Used in classic Linguine alle Vongole.
• Salmon – Perfect for a creamy or pesto spaghetti dish.

Which Meat Should You Choose for Spaghetti?

• For a classic, rich spaghetti dish? Try meatballs or ground beef.
• For bold, spicy flavors? Go with Italian sausage.
• For a light, protein-packed option? Use grilled chicken.
• For a seafood twist? Pair spaghetti with shrimp or clams.

👉 Looking for more meaty pasta ideas? Check out Steak Pasta Recipes.

How to Cook Meat for Pasta Dishes

The way you cook your meat can make or break your pasta dish. Whether you’re using ground beef, chicken, sausage, or seafood, knowing the right technique will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.

6.1 Cooking Tips for Ground Meat (Beef, Pork, Turkey)

Ground meat is a staple in many pasta dishes like Bolognese, meat sauces, and lasagna. Here’s how to cook it properly:

✔ Brown the meat first – Always cook the ground meat in a pan before adding it to sauces. This helps develop a deeper flavor.
✔ Drain excess fat – If using fatty meats like beef or pork, drain some of the fat to prevent a greasy sauce.
✔ Season while cooking – Add salt, pepper, garlic, and Italian herbs for better taste.

🔹 Best Used For:

• Spaghetti Bolognese
• Meat sauces
• Lasagna

6.2 Best Methods for Cooking Chicken for Pasta

Chicken is a lean protein that can dry out if not cooked properly. Here’s how to keep it tender and flavorful:

✔ Grill or roast for a smoky taste – Works great for Alfredo and pesto pasta.
✔ Shred for creamy pasta dishes – Slow-cook or poach chicken and shred it before mixing it with sauce.
✔ Sauté for quick, flavorful bites – Cut chicken into small pieces and cook with garlic and olive oil for Mediterranean-style pasta.

🔹 Best Used For:

• Chicken Alfredo
• Chicken pesto pasta
• Creamy garlic pasta

6.3 Cooking Italian Sausage for Pasta

Italian sausage adds bold flavor to tomato-based sauces. Here’s the best way to prepare it:

✔ Sear whole sausages first – Cook them in a pan until browned, then slice and return to the sauce.
✔ Crumble and sauté – Remove sausage from its casing, break it into pieces, and cook with garlic and onions.
✔ Slow-simmer in sauce – Let the sausage cook in marinara sauce to infuse flavor into the dish.

🔹 Best Used For:

• Sausage rigatoni
• Spicy arrabbiata pasta
• Sausage & peppers pasta

👉 For more hearty pasta ideas, check out Steak Pasta Recipes.

6.4 Preparing Seafood for Pasta

Seafood cooks fast, so timing is key to keeping it tender and juicy.

✔ Shrimp & Scallops – Sauté quickly in butter and garlic (2-3 minutes per side).
✔ Salmon – Grill or pan-sear for a crispy crust, then flake into the pasta.
✔ Clams & Mussels – Steam in a covered pot with white wine and garlic until they open.

🔹 Best Used For:

• Shrimp linguine
• Seafood Alfredo
• Clam spaghetti (Linguine alle Vongole)

6.5 Slow-Cooked Meats for Rich Pasta Dishes

If you’re making a slow-simmered sauce like ragu, certain meats benefit from long cooking times:

✔ Beef short ribs – Cook low and slow in tomato sauce for a luxurious ragu.
✔ Pork shoulder – Shred into the sauce after slow cooking for 3+ hours.
✔ Lamb shank – Adds deep, rich flavors to pappardelle pasta.

🔹 Best Used For:

• Classic Italian ragu
• Pappardelle with braised beef
• Slow-cooked lamb pasta

Cooking Meat the Right Way Makes All the Difference!

No matter which meat you choose, using the right cooking technique will ensure a flavorful, juicy, and satisfying pasta dish.

• Want a quick meal? Use sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken.
• Cooking for comfort? Try slow-cooked beef or pork ragu.
• Love bold flavors? Sear Italian sausage and let it simmer in the sauce.

👉 Check out Steak Pasta Recipes for more pasta ideas!

Meat and Pasta Pairing Guide

Pairing the right meat with the right pasta shape can elevate your dish to the next level. Some meats work better with long, thin pasta, while others are best for short, sturdy pasta that can hold heavier sauces. Let’s explore the best combinations!

7.1 Best Meat Pairings for Long Pasta (Spaghetti, Linguine, Fettuccine)

Long pasta works best with smooth, rich sauces that evenly coat the strands. The best meats for these types of pasta include:

✔ Meatballs – The classic pairing for spaghetti and marinara sauce.
✔ Shrimp – Perfect for linguine with garlic butter or white wine sauce.
✔ Chicken – Ideal for fettuccine Alfredo or creamy pasta dishes.
✔ Salmon – Great with creamy lemon sauces or pesto linguine.

🔹 Try This! Make a shrimp scampi linguine with garlic butter sauce for a light yet flavorful dish.

👉 Looking for creamy pasta ideas? Check out Steak Pasta Recipes.

7.2 Best Meat Pairings for Short Pasta (Penne, Rigatoni, Orecchiette, Fusilli)

Short pasta holds chunky, hearty sauces well, making it ideal for meaty dishes. The best meats for short pasta include:

✔ Ground Beef or Pork – Perfect for penne Bolognese or meaty baked ziti.
✔ Italian Sausage – Works great with rigatoni in spicy arrabbiata or tomato-based sauces.
✔ Grilled Chicken – A lighter option for pesto or sun-dried tomato pasta.

🔹 Try This! Toss orecchiette with crumbled Italian sausage and spinach for a quick and flavorful meal.

7.3 Best Meat Pairings for Stuffed Pasta (Ravioli, Tortellini, Manicotti, Lasagna)

Stuffed pasta dishes often contain cheese or vegetable fillings, so the meat should complement rather than overpower them.

✔ Ground Veal or Beef – Classic for lasagna Bolognese, layered with béchamel.
✔ Pancetta or Bacon – Adds smoky flavor to cheese-filled ravioli or tortellini.
✔ Braised Short Ribs – Perfect for rich, slow-cooked meat sauces in manicotti.

🔹 Try This! Make a creamy pancetta and mushroom sauce for cheese tortellini.

7.4 Best Meat Pairings for Baked Pasta (Lasagna, Ziti, Pasta Al Forno)

Baked pasta dishes need meats that can hold up to oven cooking and mix well with cheese and sauce.

✔ Ground Beef & Pork Blend – Used in traditional baked ziti and lasagna.
✔ Sausage Crumbles – Adds depth to baked pasta with tomato sauce.
✔ Shredded Chicken – Great for creamy, cheesy baked pasta dishes.

🔹 Try This! Layer lasagna with ground beef, ricotta cheese, and béchamel sauce for a rich and satisfying meal.

Final Thoughts on Meat and Pasta Pairings

• For light, delicate pasta? Use shrimp, chicken, or salmon.
• For bold, hearty dishes? Choose beef, sausage, or pork.
• For baked pasta? Stick with ground meats or shredded chicken.

Pairing the right meat with the right pasta shape ensures balanced flavor, perfect texture, and a satisfying meal!

👉 Looking for more pasta inspiration? Check out Steak Pasta Recipes.

Ultimate Meat Lover’s Pasta – A Hearty & Flavorful Dish

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• Author: Lucy
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

This Ultimate Meat Lover’s Pasta is a rich and satisfying dish featuring a combination of ground beef, Italian sausage, and pancetta, all simmered in a bold tomato sauce. Served over al dente pasta and topped with Parmesan, this dish is perfect for those who love a meaty, flavorful pasta experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Meat Sauce:

• ½ lb ground beef (90/10 lean)
• ½ lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
• ¼ cup pancetta, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup beef broth (or red wine for extra depth)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz pasta (rigatoni, penne, or spaghetti)
• 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)

For Garnishing:

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Meat

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add pancetta and cook for 2-3 minutes until crispy.
3. Add ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking them up with a spatula. Cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Remove excess grease if necessary, leaving about 1 tbsp for flavor.

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Step 2: Build the Sauce

5. Add onions and garlic to the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.
6. Stir in tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
7. Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth (or red wine).
8. Add oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
9. Simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

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Step 3: Cook the Pasta

10. While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
11. Cook pasta 1 minute less than package instructions for al dente texture.
12. Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water for later.

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Step 4: Combine & Serve

13. Add drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. If needed, add reserved pasta water for a silkier texture.
14. Simmer for 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
15. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil/parsley.

Notes

• Meat Substitutions: Swap ground turkey for a leaner option or use chicken sausage for a different flavor.
• Sauce Tip: For extra richness, stir in ½ cup heavy cream at the end for a creamy tomato sauce.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for 2 months.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate

FAQs About Meat and Pasta

1. What is the best meat to put in pasta?

The best meat for pasta depends on the sauce and type of dish you’re making. Ground beef and pork are great for hearty Bolognese, while chicken pairs well with creamy Alfredo. If you prefer a lighter option, shrimp or salmon work wonderfully with garlic butter and pesto sauces.

👉 Want a rich and meaty pasta dish? Check out Steak Pasta Recipes.

2. What protein is best for pasta?

If you’re looking for high-protein meats, the best options include:

• Chicken breast (lean and versatile)
• Ground beef or steak (rich and hearty)
• Italian sausage (spicy and flavorful)
• Shrimp and salmon (high in protein and omega-3s)

For plant-based alternatives, try tofu, lentils, or chickpeas to boost protein without using meat.

3. What meat do Italians use in pasta?

Traditional Italian pasta recipes use:

• Guanciale or pancetta (for Carbonara and Amatriciana)
• Ground beef and veal (for Bolognese and lasagna)
• Italian sausage (for zesty tomato-based dishes)
• Seafood like clams, mussels, and shrimp (for coastal Italian pastas)

4. What meat do you eat with spaghetti?

Spaghetti pairs well with:

• Meatballs (the classic choice)
• Ground beef in a meaty marinara or Bolognese
• Italian sausage for a spicy kick
• Grilled chicken for a leaner meal
• Shrimp or clams for a seafood twist

5. How do you make meat taste better in pasta?

To enhance the flavor of meat in pasta dishes:
✔ Season well – Use garlic, onion, Italian herbs, and spices.
✔ Brown the meat first – This adds depth and richness.
✔ Cook meat in the sauce – Letting meat simmer in tomato or cream sauces helps absorb flavors.
✔ Use fresh ingredients – Fresh herbs, high-quality meats, and real Parmesan make a big difference.

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Meat for Pasta

No matter what type of pasta you love, choosing the right meat can take your dish to the next level. From classic beef Bolognese to creamy chicken Alfredo and light seafood linguine, there’s a perfect meat pairing for every pasta dish!

👉 For more meaty pasta inspiration, check out Steak Pasta Recipes.

Conclusion

Choosing the right meat for pasta can enhance flavor, texture, and overall enjoyment of your dish. Whether you prefer hearty, protein-packed options like beef and sausage or lighter choices like chicken and seafood, there’s a perfect pairing for every pasta dish.

Key Takeaways:

✔ For rich, meaty pasta dishes – Use ground beef, pork, or Italian sausage in Bolognese, lasagna, and baked ziti.
✔ For creamy pasta dishes – Grilled chicken, pancetta, or salmon work best with Alfredo and Carbonara.
✔ For seafood pasta lovers – Shrimp, mussels, and clams are perfect for white wine or garlic-based sauces.
✔ For a lighter meal – Turkey, chicken, or plant-based proteins are great alternatives.
✔ For authentic Italian flavors – Try guanciale, pancetta, or slow-cooked ragu meats.

No matter your preference, pairing the right meat with the right pasta will always lead to a delicious meal!

👉 Want to try a delicious steak pasta recipe? Check out Steak Pasta Recipes.