This creamy high-protein beef pasta is a comforting dish filled with tender beef and rich flavors. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! 🍝
I love how quick it is to whip up this meal—perfect for busy nights when you need a satisfying dinner. Plus, who doesn’t like pasta that’s packed with protein?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Whole wheat or high-protein pasta adds fiber and protein. Chickpea or lentil pasta are great alternatives if you want to boost your protein intake even more. If you prefer gluten-free options, look for gluten-free pasta made from rice or quinoa.
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef for a healthier dish. If you want a lighter option, you could also use ground turkey or chicken. They may not be as rich in flavor but will still work well in this recipe.
Cottage Cheese or Greek Yogurt: Both provide creaminess while keeping the protein content high. If you’re dairy-free, silken tofu blended with a little almond milk can work too. It gives you that creamy texture without the dairy.
Beef Broth: Low-sodium beef broth adds flavor without excess salt. If you don’t have beef broth, chicken broth or vegetable broth can be a suitable substitute, adding a different but enjoyable taste to the dish.
How Do I Make the Sauce Creamy Without Overcooking?
Creating a creamy sauce is all about timing and temperature. Here’s how to ace it:
- After browning the beef, allow the broth to simmer to enhance the flavor while reducing the liquid.
- When adding cottage cheese or Greek yogurt, turn the heat down to prevent curdling. Stir slowly to combine without overheating.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually add your choice of milk while stirring until you reach your desired creaminess.
Remember, a little patience goes a long way here, and the creamy result is worth it!
How to Make Creamy High-Protein Beef Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) whole wheat or high-protein pasta (e.g., chickpea or lentil pasta)
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese or Greek yogurt (for creaminess and protein)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup skim milk or unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy beef pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta, then another 20 minutes to make the sauce and combine everything. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, which is about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. This will give your dish a lovely aroma!
3. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This will help thicken the sauce a little. Then, reduce the heat to low and stir in the cottage cheese (or Greek yogurt), Parmesan cheese, and milk. Stir continuously until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. If it’s too thick, you can add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that the pasta is coated with the creamy beef sauce. Taste and adjust any seasoning if needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the creamy high-protein beef pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or basil if you like. Enjoy this hearty and nutritious meal!
Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious creamy pasta!
FAQ for Creamy High-Protein Beef Pasta
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. It will still provide good protein while making the dish lighter. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly until it’s no longer pink.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, this pasta dish can be frozen! Store it in a well-sealed container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove, stirring occasionally until heated through.
What Can I Add for More Vegetables?
For added nutrition, consider throwing in some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers while sautéing the onions and garlic. You can also add steamed broccoli or cherry tomatoes for a fresh touch right before serving!
