This high protein creamy beef pasta is a perfect go-to for quick weeknight dinners when you want something tasty and filling without spending a ton of time in the kitchen. It features tender ground beef cooked just right and tossed with pasta in a rich, creamy sauce that hits all the comforts. Plus, it’s loaded with protein to keep you fueled and satisfied.
I love making this recipe because it comes together so fast and feels like a real treat after a busy day. One of my favorite tricks is to cook the beef with some garlic and onion for extra flavor, then stir in a bit of cream or cream cheese to make the sauce super smooth and delicious. It’s a simple way to get a creamy texture without needing a bunch of fancy ingredients.
For serving, I like to sprinkle a little shredded cheese and some fresh herbs on top to add a pop of color and taste. It’s great with a side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. I often find that this dish becomes a family favorite because it’s easy to make and everyone loves how creamy and hearty it is, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick and satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lean Ground Beef: Choose lean beef for a good protein boost without too much fat. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken can work well here, keeping it light but still tasty.
Pasta: Whole wheat or protein-enriched pasta adds extra fiber and protein. You can swap in chickpea or lentil pasta for a gluten-free option with more plant protein.
Cream Cheese or Greek Yogurt: These give the creamy texture without heavy cream. Greek yogurt adds tang and protein but stir gently to avoid curdling. For dairy-free, try cashew cream.
Fresh Spinach and Cherry Tomatoes: These veggies add freshness and color. Feel free to use kale, arugula, or sun-dried tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t on hand.
Parmesan Cheese: Brings a salty, nutty flavor. Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are good substitutes.
How Can I Make the Sauce Creamy Without It Breaking?
The sauce is creamy thanks to cream cheese or Greek yogurt, but these can separate if cooked too hot. Here’s how to avoid that:
- After adding broth to the beef, reduce heat to medium-low before stirring in cream cheese or yogurt.
- Mix the dairy in slowly and gently, stirring continuously.
- If using Greek yogurt, temper it by mixing a small spoonful of hot broth into the yogurt first, then add it to the pan.
- Do not boil the sauce after adding dairy; just warm it through until smooth.
Following these steps keeps your sauce silky and smooth, making the dish perfect for quick and easy dinners.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for boiling pasta evenly without crowding.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – lets you brown the beef and cook the sauce all in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for breaking up the ground beef and stirring the sauce gently.
- Colander – makes draining pasta quick and easy.
- Grater – handy for freshly grating Parmesan cheese to maximize flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner, milder option that still packs protein.
- Add sautéed mushrooms to deepen flavor and add a meaty texture that blends well.
- Mix in cooked bacon or pancetta pieces for a smoky, crispy bite.
- Stir in chopped fresh basil or parsley at the end for a bright, fresh herbal note.
High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta for Quick Weeknight Dinners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta and Sauce:
- 12 oz whole wheat or protein-enriched pasta (fusilli or penne)
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth or water
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
The entire recipe takes about 25-30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping ingredients and 15-20 minutes cooking. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
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 instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Season with smoked paprika, dried Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat.
4. Add Tomatoes and Deglaze:
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Lower the heat to medium and pour in the beef broth. Stir well, scraping up any tasty browned bits from the pan bottom.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Add the cream cheese or Greek yogurt to the skillet. Stir gently until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more broth or water to reach your preferred consistency.
6. Finish with Greens and Cheese:
Add the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Then toss in the cooked pasta, mixing everything until the pasta is evenly coated. Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan until it melts into the sauce.
7. Serve:
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve your creamy beef pasta immediately, garnished with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, if desired.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This prevents excess moisture and ensures even browning.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese or Greek Yogurt?
If you’re avoiding dairy or want a lighter option, try using cashew cream or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Coconut cream can also work but will add a subtle coconut flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately. Mix and reheat just before serving to keep the pasta from getting soggy. This works great for meal prep too.
