High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

There’s a Comfort in Creamy Beef Pasta

Nothing beats the allure of a warm, creamy pasta dish, especially after a long day. This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is the perfect weeknight meal that not only satisfies your cravings but is also packed with protein to keep you energized. I’ve often turned to this recipe when I’m pressed for time but still want to serve my family something delicious and hearty. Each bite is rich and creamy, with just the right amount of beefiness to make it a standout on any dinner table.

What Makes This Recipe Special

You might wonder why this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta deserves a place on your dinner rotation. For starters, it’s straightforward to prepare and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The combination of Greek yogurt or cream cheese mixed with broth creates a rich, creamy sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. Plus, with a healthy dose of ground beef, you’ll be able to enjoy a meal that’s both filling and packed with protein—perfect for anyone looking to fuel their body right!

"This pasta dish has quickly become a family favorite! It’s creamy, comforting, and I love knowing that it’s healthy enough for my kids." — Happy Home Cook

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a breeze, even for beginner cooks! The process can be summed up in a few simple steps: cook the pasta until al dente, brown the beef, create a creamy sauce, and combine everything together. With minimal prep and a few ingredients, this dish is easy to pull off, whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd.

Gather Your Ingredients

To whip up this creamy delight, here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 12 oz pasta (rigatoni or penne)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 3/4 cup milk or broth (your choice)
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or cream cheese (both work well)
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

For a lighter version, swap out the cream cheese for Greek yogurt. You can also use turkey or chicken if you prefer leaner meat!

New Ebook

🍰 30 Easy No-Bake Desserts

A delicious collection of no-bake treats you can make anytime, including:

• ✨ Chocolate lovers’ dreams – fudgy bars, truffles & mousse
• 🍓 Fruity delights – creamy parfaits, lemon & mango desserts
• 🥜 Nutty & indulgent – peanut butter & pistachio bites
• 🍋 Citrus & refreshing – lemon, orange creamsicle & key lime
• 🍪 Classic favorites – icebox cakes & cookie dough cups

👉 Get the Ebook

Instant digital download • Secure checkout via Gumroad

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Start by cooking the pasta in a pot of salted water, following package instructions until al dente. Once ready, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain the rest.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and minced garlic, browning the meat while seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for about a minute. This enhances the flavors!
4. Gradually pour in the milk or broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Once it’s bubbly, stir in the Greek yogurt or cream cheese, mixing until you achieve a creamy sauce.
6. Toss in the drained pasta, ensuring every piece is coated. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Finally, fold in the grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Perfect Pairings for High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

When it comes to serving this dish, there are plenty of options to elevate your meal. A fresh side salad with a zesty vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta, cleansing the palate between bites. Garlic bread is always a winner, soaking up any leftover sauce. Alternatively, you could serve it alongside some steamed broccoli or asparagus for a pop of color and added nutrition.

Best Way to Store High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

Leftovers of this creamy pasta dish can be stored easily for later enjoyment. After it has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It can last up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. It’s important to heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave to prevent the sauce from separating.

Helpful Hints

To ensure your pasta dish turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Don’t overcook your pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape better and absorbs sauce nicely.
• Use a good quality olive oil: It enhances the flavor of the beef and the overall dish.
• Experiment with herbs: Adding some Italian herbs like oregano or basil can elevate the flavor profile.

Different Ways to Make It

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few creative variations to try:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or finely chopped mushrooms for a meatless version.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Cheesy Delight: Mix in different cheeses like mozzarella or a blend of cheddar for a richer flavor.

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for this dish?

Preparation takes about 10 minutes, while cooking takes another 15-20 minutes, making this a quick meal.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rigatoni and penne are great choices, any pasta you have on hand will work well.

How do I adjust the recipe for dietary restrictions?

For gluten-free options, you can use gluten-free pasta. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, consider using a plant-based cream cheese alternative or coconut milk instead of dairy.

Whether you’re a busy parent seeking quick dinner solutions or someone simply looking to whip up a comforting meal, this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta has got you covered—simple, delicious, and full of flavor!

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

---

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: High Protein

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A warm, creamy pasta dish that’s high in protein and perfect for busy weeknights.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 12 oz pasta (rigatoni or penne)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 3/4 cup milk or broth (your choice)
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or cream cheese
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

---

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in a pot of salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and minced garlic, browning while seasoning with salt and pepper.
3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for about a minute.
4. Gradually pour in milk or broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Once bubbly, stir in Greek yogurt or cream cheese until creamy.
6. Toss in drained pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed for consistency.
7. Fold in grated Parmesan cheese, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

For a lighter version, swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt. You can also use turkey or chicken for a leaner meal.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 500
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: creamy pasta, beef pasta, weeknight meal, protein-packed, comfort food