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Delicious High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe

Delicious High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe
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This Delicious High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe combines lean ground beef, a creamy luscious sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for a hearty and nourishing meal. Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping, it offers rich flavors, satisfying textures, and a protein-packed delight that is both comforting and customizable with fresh herbs and optional veggies.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins & Dairy

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt

Pasta & Vegetables

  • 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Fresh herbs (such as basil or parsley), chopped, for garnish

Pantry Staples & Seasonings

  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper as it cooks. Remove excess fat if necessary.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes, creating the flavorful base of the sauce.
  3. Combine Tomato Paste and Cream: Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste to coat the beef and aromatics, cooking for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor. Pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or Greek yogurt and stir until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
  4. Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz of penne or rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well, reserving a small amount of pasta water.
  5. Mix Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained pasta directly into the creamy beef mixture. Toss gently to coat all the pasta pieces evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired creaminess is achieved.
  6. Finish with Cheese and Herbs: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped herbs for a savory finish and fresh note.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease and keep the dish balanced.
  • Cook pasta al dente to maintain good texture and sauce absorption.
  • Fresh garlic and onions provide stronger flavor than powdered versions.
  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce thickness as needed.
  • Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes off heat to let flavors meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: high protein pasta, creamy beef pasta, easy weeknight dinner, comfort food, healthy ground beef recipes

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/delicious-high-protein-creamy-beef-pasta-recipe/