Name: High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option); 12 oz pasta (whole wheat or high-protein pasta like chickpea or lentil pasta); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup beef broth (or chicken broth); 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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This High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a satisfying and hearty dish that combines lean ground beef with a rich, creamy sauce, making it both flavorful and filling. With a high protein content from the beef and a creamy texture that’s irresistibly good, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend indulgence. The addition of whole wheat pasta or protein-packed alternatives takes this dish to the next level of nutrition while keeping it deliciously comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy beef pasta is everything you love about comfort food, but with the added benefit of being high in protein. The lean ground beef offers a great source of protein and iron, while the creamy sauce balances richness with a touch of tang. The pasta provides a great base to soak up all the creamy goodness, and it’s a meal that satisfies without being overly heavy. Plus, it’s quick to make—ready in just about 30 minutes!

High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
12 oz pasta (whole wheat or high-protein pasta like chickpea or lentil pasta)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the beef: In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, about 7-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet with the beef, and sauté for another 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Make the creamy sauce: Add the beef broth to the skillet, stirring to combine with the beef and aromatics. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Then, pour in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Dijon mustard. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
Combine with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it in the creamy beef sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
Serve: Garnish the creamy beef pasta with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately!
Enjoy: Enjoy this high-protein creamy beef pasta as a satisfying dinner that’s rich in flavor and packed with protein.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add vegetables: You can toss in some spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to add more nutrients and flavor to the dish.
Make it lighter: Swap the heavy cream for a lower-fat option like Greek yogurt, ricotta, or a non-dairy cream alternative like coconut milk for a lighter version.
Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the sauce for an extra kick of heat.
Use different meat: You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the creamy beef pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen up the sauce as it may thicken when stored.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to use regular pasta, whole wheat pasta, gluten-free pasta, or high-protein pasta options such as chickpea or lentil pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the creamy beef sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Store both separately in the refrigerator, and combine when you’re ready to serve. The sauce may thicken upon cooling, so you may need to add a little extra broth or cream when reheating.

Can I freeze this creamy beef pasta?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover creamy beef pasta. Store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra cream or broth to restore its creamy texture.

Can I use a different protein in place of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat (like lentils or chickpea crumbles) would work well in this recipe for a lighter or vegetarian version.

Conclusion

This High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a delicious, rich, and satisfying dish that combines hearty ground beef with a creamy sauce and pasta, making it a perfect meal for any night of the week. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor and protein, ensuring you feel full and satisfied. Whether you enjoy it on its own or with a side of veggies, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation!