This Easy High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a fantastic meal that brings together tender beef, creamy sauce, and hearty pasta all in one bowl. The dish has a nice balance of rich flavors and satisfying textures, making it a great choice for anyone looking for something filling and delicious without too much fuss.
I love how simple it is to make, yet it feels like a special dish when it’s ready. The creamy sauce clings to every strand of pasta, and the beef adds a nice boost of protein that keeps you feeling full and energized. When I make this, I often add a little extra seasoning or some fresh herbs to brighten things up—it really makes the flavors pop in a comforting way.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this pasta is with a side of steamed veggies or a simple green salad to add some crunch and freshness. It’s a perfect meal for busy evenings when you want something tasty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a hit with everyone at the table, which always makes me happy to cook and share it again and again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using lean beef (90% lean or higher) helps boost protein without adding too much fat. If you want a lighter choice, ground turkey or chicken work well too—they still keep it high protein.
Pasta: Gemelli or rotini are perfect because their twists hold the sauce nicely. You can swap for penne or fusilli if you prefer. For extra protein, try whole wheat or chickpea pasta.
Cream Cheese or Greek Yogurt: These give the sauce its creamy texture and add protein. Greek yogurt adds tanginess, while cream cheese makes it richer. Use full-fat or low-fat based on your preference.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese adds salty, nutty flavor and some protein. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Asiago work well as substitutes.
How Do You Get a Creamy, Smooth Sauce Without Clumps?
The key is to add the cream cheese or Greek yogurt slowly over low heat after the tomato sauce has simmered. Here’s how:
- After simmering crushed tomatoes and broth, lower the heat to prevent splitting.
- Add cream cheese or yogurt in small chunks; stir gently as it melts into the sauce.
- Mix in the Parmesan cheese gradually to combine smoothly.
- Keep stirring to prevent sticking and achieve a velvety texture.
Patience is important here—low heat and gentle stirring keep the sauce creamy and prevent it from separating or becoming grainy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling pasta easily without crowding.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – perfect for cooking the beef and making the sauce all in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – to stir the beef and sauce without scratching your pan.
- Colander – to drain the pasta quickly and safely.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your ingredient amounts just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner meal that still packs protein.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the sauce for extra texture and vitamins.
- Stir in a handful of spinach or kale at the end for a fresh boost of greens and color.
- Try shredded mozzarella or a bit of cream cheese in place of Parmesan for a creamier, milder sauce.
Easy High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz gemelli or rotini pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean or higher for more protein)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 cup low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt (for creaminess and protein)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing and cooking the beef and sauce, about 10 minutes boiling the pasta, and 5 minutes mixing everything together. It’s a quick meal perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef and Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink — about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly. Lower the heat and add the cream cheese or Greek yogurt along with the Parmesan cheese. Stir gently until the sauce is creamy and smooth — taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.
4. Combine and Serve:
Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together so the pasta is well coated with the creamy beef mixture. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the pasta
- Large skillet or sauté pan – to cook the beef and make the sauce
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring
- Colander – to drain pasta
- Measuring cups and spoons – to measure ingredients accurately
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the sauce for extra veggies and texture.
- Stir in fresh spinach or kale at the end for a nutritious green boost.
- Replace Parmesan with mozzarella or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave before cooking. This ensures it cooks evenly and safely.
Can I Substitute Greek Yogurt for Cream Cheese?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt gives the sauce a tangier flavor and adds protein while keeping it creamy. Use the same amount, and stir it in gently over low heat to prevent curdling.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce feels too thick.
Is There a Gluten-Free Pasta Option?
Yes! You can use gluten-free pasta varieties available in most supermarkets. Just cook according to the package instructions, as cooking times may vary slightly.
