Description
This high-protein creamy beef pasta is a quick and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights. Made with lean ground beef, protein-enriched pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce, it’s a flavorful and nourishing meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- 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 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Notes
- 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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: high-protein pasta, creamy beef pasta, quick dinner, healthy pasta recipe, protein-rich meal