This Easy High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a delicious and simple dish that combines tender ground beef with a rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. The creamy texture and the hearty beef make it a satisfying meal for any day of the week. It’s packed with protein, which makes it great for refueling after a busy day or a workout.
I love how quickly this comes together with just a few ingredients you probably already have at home. The creamy sauce is smooth and comforting, and the beef adds that nice, meaty flavor that everyone enjoys. I usually add a sprinkle of cheese on top and fresh herbs when I have them, which really lifts the dish. It’s one of those meals that feels special but is super easy to make.
My favorite way to serve this pasta is with a simple side salad or some steamed veggies to add a bit of green on the plate. It’s also perfect for warming up leftovers, so I like to make a little extra to enjoy the next day. Whenever I make this, it quickly becomes a family favorite, and I’m always happy to have a reliable, tasty dinner ready in no time.
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: Using lean ground beef keeps the dish high in protein but not too greasy. If you want a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken—they work well too.
Pasta: Penne is great because its shape holds the creamy sauce nicely. You can swap it with rigatoni, fusilli, or whole-grain pasta for added fiber.
Heavy cream: This makes the sauce rich and smooth. For a lighter version, half & half or whole milk with a touch of cornstarch for thickness works fine.
Parmesan cheese: It adds a salty, nutty flavor and creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast is a tasty substitute.
How Do You Make the Creamy Sauce Without It Breaking or Curdling?
To keep the sauce smooth when adding cream:
- Lower the heat before pouring in the cream to avoid boiling, which can cause curdling.
- Stir gently and keep the sauce at a simmer or just below.
- If your sauce starts separating, turn off the heat and whisk vigorously to bring it back together.
- Add grated Parmesan gradually while stirring; it melts smoothly and helps thicken the sauce.
These simple steps help you achieve that creamy texture that coats the pasta and beef perfectly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the pasta; you’ll want plenty of water so it cooks evenly without sticking.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – perfect for browning the beef and simmering the creamy sauce all in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring the beef and sauce without scratching your pan.
- Colander – to drain the pasta quickly and easily once it’s cooked.
- Grater – for shredding the Parmesan cheese fresh, which melts better into the sauce.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to lower fat while keeping protein high.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies and a boost of flavor.
- Stir in red pepper flakes for a mild spicy kick that livens up the creamy sauce.
- Mix in shredded mozzarella or cheddar with Parmesan for a melty, cheesy twist.
Easy High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream or half & half
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or rosemary, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal takes about 25 minutes in total. Around 10 minutes to prepare and cook the pasta, and about 15 minutes to cook the beef and make the creamy sauce. It’s a quick and filling dish perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s just tender (al dente). Drain the pasta and set it aside while you make the sauce.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it softens. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell the lovely aroma.
3. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart and cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Season the beef with salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs to give it great flavor.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the tomato sauce and let it simmer gently for 3-5 minutes to blend the flavors. Then, turn the heat to low and slowly add the heavy cream. Stir it in carefully and warm it through – but don’t let it boil! Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and makes a creamy, delicious sauce. Taste and adjust with salt or pepper if needed.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together so the penne is evenly coated in the creamy beef sauce.
6. Serve:
Serve the pasta right away, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a sprig of rosemary if you like. Enjoy your tasty, protein-packed meal!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and safely.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, use half & half or whole milk mixed with a teaspoon of cornstarch to thicken. Coconut milk is also a good dairy-free alternative, though it will slightly change the flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy beef pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Pasta?
Absolutely! Try stirring in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to add extra nutrition and flavor.
