This high protein creamy beef pasta is a perfect recipe for those busy weeknights when you want something tasty, filling, and quick to make. It features tender ground beef mixed into a creamy sauce that clings to every strand of pasta, making each bite rich and satisfying without taking hours to prepare.
I love making this dish when I’m short on time but still want a homemade meal. The creamy sauce comes together with simple ingredients like cheese and a bit of milk, and the beef adds a hearty protein boost that keeps me full long after dinner. It’s one of those meals I come back to again and again because it hits the spot so well.
The best part is how easy it is to customize—sometimes I like to toss in some spinach or mushrooms to sneak in extra veggies, or sprinkle a little extra cheese on top for a melty finish. It’s great served with a side salad or some garlic bread, and it always feels like a cozy dinner that everyone at the table enjoys.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lean Ground Beef: Using 90% lean beef keeps the dish hearty but less greasy. If you want less fat, ground turkey or chicken work well too.
Pasta: Penne holds the creamy sauce nicely. If you prefer, try rigatoni, fusilli, or whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.
Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess and protein without heaviness. Cottage cheese is a good swap if you want fewer calories.
Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: Greek yogurt boosts creaminess and protein while keeping acidity balanced. Sour cream works too but adds a bit more fat.
Diced Tomatoes: Bring freshness and a subtle tang. Canned or fresh both work, but drain canned tomatoes slightly to avoid watery sauce.
How Do You Get a Creamy Sauce That Doesn’t Split or Clump?
Mixing dairy into a hot meat sauce needs care to keep it smooth and creamy:
- Lower the heat before adding ricotta, yogurt, or sour cream. High heat can cause curdling.
- Stir gently and slowly incorporate the cheese and yogurt into the liquid base.
- Add some pasta cooking water or broth if the sauce is too thick to help loosen it.
- Avoid boiling the sauce after adding dairy; warming it gently is enough.
These steps help keep the sauce silky and well combined, making every bite deliciously creamy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for boiling pasta without crowding.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – roomy enough to cook the beef and make the creamy sauce in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring the sauce and breaking up the ground beef.
- Colander – makes draining pasta easy and quick.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your seasonings and dairy just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option that still packs protein.
- Add spinach or kale near the end of cooking for a boost of vitamins and a pop of color.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms for a deeper, earthier flavor and extra texture.
- Stir in a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder to add warmth and a subtle smoky kick.
High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth or water
- 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream (for extra creaminess and protein)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20-25 minutes from start to finish. It includes about 10 minutes to prepare your ingredients and cook the beef and sauce, and roughly 10-12 minutes to boil and combine the pasta. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but still deliciously creamy and protein-packed!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook The Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente (firm but cooked through). Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Sauté Veggies and Brown The Beef:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until it starts to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until fully browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
3. Make The Creamy Sauce:
Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat, and salt and pepper to taste. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes so the flavors can blend nicely. Turn the heat down to low, then add the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and Greek yogurt or sour cream. Stir gently to combine and create a creamy sauce. Don’t let it boil after adding the dairy to keep the sauce smooth.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together so the pasta is fully coated with the rich, creamy beef sauce. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to soak up some of the flavors.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped basil. Serve immediately and enjoy your satisfying, protein-packed creamy beef pasta!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps with better browning.
Can I Substitute the Ricotta Cheese?
Absolutely. You can use cottage cheese blended until smooth or cream cheese for a richer texture. Just keep in mind the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers work great. Add them during the sauté step or toss in spinach just before combining the pasta and sauce to keep it fresh and vibrant.
