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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, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious creamy sauce for a hearty, nutritious meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it offers rich flavors with protein-packed ingredients to satisfy your taste buds and fuel your body.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
  • 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite type)
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Optional Add-ins & Garnishes

  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
  • Red pepper flakes or cayenne (for spice)
  • Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers (sautéed, optional)
  • Extra grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of pasta water, and set aside.
  2. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart evenly. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream (or Greek yogurt). Stir well to combine with the beef mixture. Let it simmer gently, allowing the sauce to thicken. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
  4. Combine and Add Cheese: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and stir until the cheese melts and the pasta is well coated.
  5. Finish with Fresh Herbs and Serve: Turn off the heat and fold in freshly chopped parsley or basil for brightness and aroma. Serve immediately while warm, garnished with extra Parmesan or pepper if desired.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) to reduce excess grease and improve texture.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; check a minute before package time since it will cook further in the sauce.
  • Reserve pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it cling better to the pasta.
  • Use fresh garlic and onions for better flavor than pre-minced or powdered versions.
  • Simmer the cream gently to avoid curdling and maintain smooth texture.
  • Add Parmesan cheese off-heat or on low heat to keep it creamy without clumping.

Nutrition

Keywords: high protein pasta, creamy beef pasta, easy beef pasta recipe, weeknight dinner, comfort food, protein-rich meal

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