High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
Fuel your body with this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta—a rich and satisfying meal packed with tender beef, protein-packed pasta, and a creamy, flavorful sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or post-workout dinners, this recipe combines comfort and nutrition in every bite. Easy to make and loved by the whole family!
Equipment
- Large pot (for pasta)
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 12 oz high-protein pasta (chickpea, lentil, or Banza)
- 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
- 1 cup Greek yogurt or cottage cheese
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1–2 cups fresh spinach or optional vegetables
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- 1–2 tsp olive oil
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; reserve ½ cup pasta water.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet; sauté onions until translucent, add garlic, cook 30 seconds.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart; cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Reduce heat; stir in Greek yogurt or cottage cheese, paprika, Italian seasoning, and optional vegetables. Gradually add reserved pasta water to reach desired sauce consistency.
- Toss cooked pasta with the sauce until evenly coated.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Don’t overcook high-protein pasta; check 1–2 minutes before suggested time.
- Adjust sauce thickness with reserved pasta water.
- Swap herbs (basil, oregano) for thyme, rosemary, or parsley for variation.
- Add extra cottage cheese or a scoop of unflavored protein powder for more protein.
- Garnish with Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.