This Easy High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a delicious and filling meal that combines tender ground beef with a rich, creamy sauce and your favorite pasta. It’s packed with flavor and protein, making it great for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy texture and hearty beef make this pasta a real crowd-pleaser.
I love making this dish because it comes together so quickly, and I can always count on it to hit the spot. The creamy sauce clings to every bite of pasta, while the beef adds a nice, meaty depth. Sometimes I like to toss in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach to add a little extra veggie goodness, which makes me feel even better about digging in.
When I serve this pasta, I usually sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese on top and pair it with a simple green salad or some steamed veggies. It’s a meal that feels comforting but also energizing, thanks to all the protein. It’s perfect for refueling after a long day or a tough workout. I always end up making extra because everyone in my family asks for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using lean ground beef (90% lean) packs more protein with less fat. If you want even leaner, try ground turkey or chicken—they work great too!
Cottage Cheese or Greek Yogurt: These add creaminess and protein without heavy cream. Greek yogurt gives a tangy twist, while cottage cheese keeps it mild. You could swap for cream cheese lightly blended with milk if needed.
Pasta: Gemelli or rotini are perfect to catch the sauce in their twists. But feel free to use penne or fusilli if that’s what you have on hand—any pasta with ridges or twists works well.
Tomato Sauce: A simple marinara or tomato sauce keeps the dish balanced. If you want a richer flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a little tomato paste.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese melts smoothly and adds a nutty taste. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano also taste great.
How Can I Make the Sauce Creamy Without Using Heavy Cream?
This is where cottage cheese or Greek yogurt shine! They make the sauce creamy while boosting protein and keeping it lighter.
- After simmering the tomato and beef sauce, lower the heat to avoid curdling.
- Stir in the cottage cheese or Greek yogurt slowly, mixing well to melt it into the sauce.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese to enrich the texture and flavor.
- Keep the heat low and stir gently to create a nice smooth consistency.
This method is healthier and prevents the sauce from becoming too thick or oily. Plus, the creamy taste blends perfectly with the beef and pasta!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – to cook the pasta evenly and prevent sticking.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – perfect for browning the beef and simmering the sauce all in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring the beef and sauce without scratching your pan.
- Colander – to drain the cooked pasta quickly and easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep the ingredient amounts right and the sauce balanced.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option that still tastes great.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to boost veggie content and add texture.
- Stir in a handful of baby spinach near the end for extra nutrients without changing flavor much.
- Mix in shredded mozzarella or cheddar for a cheesier, melty sauce that kids will love.
Easy High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz gemelli or rotini pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean for higher protein)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce or marinara
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese or Greek yogurt (for creaminess and protein)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, so you can have a hearty, high-protein creamy beef pasta ready in around 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Beef:
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Then add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat.
3. Build the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the tomato sauce and broth, stir well, and let it simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors. Lower the heat and stir in the cottage cheese or Greek yogurt along with the grated Parmesan. Mix thoroughly until you have a creamy, smooth sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Combine and Serve:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy beef sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the ground beef before cooking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. This helps it cook evenly and prevents excess moisture.
Can I Substitute the Pasta for a Low-Carb Option?
Absolutely! You can swap gemelli or rotini with spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles for a lower-carb and gluten-free alternative. Just add them at the end and toss gently to coat.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce creamy and smooth.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free yogurt or a creamy plant-based alternative instead of cottage cheese or Greek yogurt. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for that cheesy flavor without dairy.
