High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe for a Quick Weeknight

A Delicious and Protein-Packed Comfort Meal

This high-protein creamy beef pasta is a quick and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with lean ground beef, whole wheat or protein-enriched pasta, and a rich yet nutritious creamy sauce, it delivers flavor and sustenance in every bite. With a cooking time of just 30 minutes, this meal is ideal for anyone looking for a wholesome, protein-rich dinner without sacrificing taste or convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High in Protein – Lean ground beef and high-protein pasta provide muscle-building nutrients.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
• Creamy and Flavorful – A rich, velvety sauce enhances the hearty beef and pasta.
• Customizable – Easily adapt the ingredients to suit dietary preferences.

Ingredients

• 8 oz high-protein pasta (whole wheat, chickpea, or lentil pasta)
• 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the high-protein pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease if necessary.

3. Add Garlic and Seasonings

Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, stirring well. Reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to develop the flavors.

5. Add the Dairy Components

Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream (or Greek yogurt). Add Parmesan cheese and mix until fully incorporated. If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in the reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

6. Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce. Let everything cook together for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the pasta absorbs the flavors.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Variations and Substitutions

• Lighter Version – Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream.
• Spicier Option – Increase red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños.
• More Vegetables – Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
• Different Protein – Replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I increase the protein content further?

You can add more lean ground beef, mix in cottage cheese, or use protein-enriched pasta.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free chickpea or lentil pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

What’s the best pasta for this recipe?

Whole wheat, chickpea, or lentil pasta work best for a high-protein option.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but for best results, store the pasta and sauce separately and combine when reheating.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

Nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese works as a great alternative.

Can I make this recipe without dairy?

Yes, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew milk.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Not as written, but you can use zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles and swap out the tomatoes.

What vegetables pair well with this pasta?

Spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers are great additions.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well and keeps the dish lean.

What can I serve with this pasta?

A simple green salad or roasted vegetables make excellent side dishes.

Conclusion

This high-protein creamy beef pasta is a perfect go-to recipe for busy weeknights. It’s hearty, delicious, and packed with protein, making it a balanced meal the whole family will love. With its creamy texture and bold flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your weekly rotation. Try it today and enjoy a satisfying, protein-rich dinner in just 30 minutes!

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