Name: High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

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High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe

Pasta night doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your goals, especially with this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta. This comforting dish combines fettuccine with lean ground beef and a rich, creamy sauce—perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or a hearty weekend feast. I discovered this recipe on a busy evening when I craved something filling but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It quickly became a family favorite, and I believe it will do the same for you!

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a delightful blend of protein and creamy goodness, making it a standout choice for almost any occasion. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your dinner table:

Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of about 30 minutes, you can whip it up even on the busiest evenings.
Kid-Approved: It blends flavors that children adore, making it perfect for family dinners.
High in Protein: Packed with lean ground beef and hearty pasta, this dish is great for anyone looking to boost their protein intake.
Comfort Food Redefined: The creamy sauce and savory beef create a filling comfort food experience without excessive carbs.

“This dish is a hit at our house! The kids can’t get enough of it, and it’s so easy for me to make after a long day.” – A Happy Customer

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Preparing High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is straightforward. Here’s an overview of the process:

Start by cooking the fettuccine until al dente.
Brown the ground beef with seasoning.
Sauté the garlic, then whisk in cream and cheese for your sauce.
Combine everything with wilted spinach and fettuccine for a creamy finish.

Everything You Need for This Recipe

To create this delicious meal, gather the following ingredients:

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb lean ground beef
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups fresh spinach
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

You can also substitute the fettuccine with whole grain pasta or a gluten-free variant for dietary preferences.

Cooking Steps

Cook the Pasta: In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Break it into small pieces and season it with salt and pepper. Cook until completely browned.
Sauté Garlic: Push the cooked beef to one side of the skillet. Add the minced garlic to the other side and sauté for about one minute until fragrant.
Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese. Mix continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add Spinach: Toss in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt while scraping any flavorful bits from the pan.
Combine: Add the drained fettuccine to the skillet, mixing it with the creamy beef sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency. Serve hot and enjoy!

Perfect Pairings for High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

To elevate your meal, serve your High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta with:

Garlic Bread: A perfect companion for mopping up the creamy sauce.
Crusty Italian Bread: Serve it alongside for a heartier experience.
Side Salad: A light, refreshing green salad will balance the richness of the dish.

Best Way to Store High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

Leftovers? No problem! Storing your dish correctly is essential:

Refrigeration: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. It should last 3-4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze leftovers in a sealed container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheat before serving.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to maintain creaminess.

Pro Chef Tips

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: To avoid mushy pasta, make sure it’s cooked al dente as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to enhance flavors.

Creative Twists

Looking to mix things up? Here are some fun variations:

Different Pasta: Swap the fettuccine for penne or tagliatelle based on your preference.
Spice it Up!: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Swap the Meat: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option available.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare?
From start to finish, approximately 30 minutes.

Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes! If you don’t have Parmesan, consider using Pecorino Romano or even mozzarella for a stretchier texture.

Is this meal good for meal prep?
Absolutely, it stores well in the fridge and reheats nicely, making it a great choice for meal prep.

With this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta recipe, you’re well on your way to a delicious, fulfilling meal that the whole family will love. Enjoy cooking and delighting in every bite!

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

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

Description

A delightful blend of fettuccine, lean ground beef, and a rich, creamy sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb lean ground beef
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups fresh spinach
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Break it into small pieces and season it with salt and pepper. Cook until completely browned.
Push the cooked beef to one side of the skillet. Add the minced garlic to the other side and sauté for about one minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese. Mix continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Toss in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt while scraping any flavorful bits from the pan.
Add the drained fettuccine to the skillet, mixing it with the creamy beef sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For variations, swap the fettuccine with whole grain or gluten-free pasta. This meal stores well for meal prep.

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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 550
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 40g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: creamy beef pasta, high protein, quick dinner, family meals, comfort food