This Easy High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is the perfect bowl of comfort with a twist. It combines tender ground beef, a creamy sauce, and hearty pasta all in one dish. You get a satisfying mix of flavors and textures, with a rich creaminess that coats every bite. Plus, it’s packed with protein, which makes it a great dinner option if you’re looking to feel full and energized.
I love how simple it is to make this recipe after a busy day. The beef cooks quickly, and the creamy sauce comes together with just a few ingredients. I often add a little extra garlic or sprinkle some cheese on top for a bit more flavor. It’s one of those meals that feels fancy but is actually super easy to whip up. I always find myself going back for seconds!
My favorite way to enjoy this pasta is straight from the pan, maybe with a side of steamed veggies or a fresh green salad. It’s the kind of dish that warms you up and fills your belly without being too heavy. This creamy beef pasta has become a family favorite in my house – simple, tasty, and just the right amount of creamy comfort every time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: Lean ground beef packs protein and keeps the dish hearty. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or plant-based crumbles if you want a vegetarian take.
Pasta: Fusilli or rotini works well to hold the creamy sauce in their twists. Penne or rigatoni are good substitutes. For a low-carb choice, try spiralized veggies or chickpea pasta.
Heavy cream: This makes the sauce rich and smooth. If you want a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese instead.
Tomato sauce: Adds a tangy balance to the creaminess. You can use crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce as a quick alternative.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella melt beautifully to thicken and flavor the sauce. Feel free to experiment with Parmesan, Monterey Jack, or even a little cream cheese for extra creaminess.
How Do You Get the Sauce Perfectly Creamy and Well-Rounded?
To get a creamy sauce that clings nicely to the pasta, you want to follow these simple steps:
- Cook aromatics first: Sauté onion, garlic, and red pepper until soft to build great flavor.
- Brown the beef well: This adds richness and gives texture. Break it into small pieces for even cooking.
- Simmer the sauce: After adding broth, tomato sauce, and cream, let it simmer for a few minutes. This thickens the sauce.
- Stir in cheese off the heat: Lower heat so cheese melts smoothly without clumping.
- Toss in pasta last: Add drained pasta to the sauce and stir until every piece is coated and creamy.
Patience with simmering is key. Don’t rush—this lets flavors blend and your sauce reach that perfect creamy consistency you want.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking the beef and making the sauce all in one pan.
- Pot for boiling pasta – you’ll need this to cook the pasta until just right.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring and breaking up the ground beef.
- Colander – to drain the cooked pasta quickly and easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate sauce and seasoning measurements.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein alternative.
- Add chopped mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies and nutrients.
- Use pepper jack cheese for a little spicy kick in the creamy sauce.
- Stir in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chili flakes for a smoky or spicy twist.
Easy High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Protein:
- 8 oz (225 g) fusilli or rotini pasta
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
Vegetables & Seasonings:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- ¾ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
Other:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 20 minutes to cook. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, creamy beef and pasta dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli or rotini pasta and cook following the package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you make the sauce.
2. Sauté the Vegetables and Beef:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Next, add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Sprinkle in salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook the beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and no longer pink.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and heavy cream. Stir everything well and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 4-5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheese and mix until it melts and the sauce turns creamy.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Toss everything together carefully so the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
Taste the pasta and add more salt or pepper if needed.
5. Serve:
Dish out your creamy beef pasta onto plates or bowls. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a fresh, bright finish. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps it brown evenly and prevents excess moisture in the skillet.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lower in Calories?
Try swapping heavy cream for half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt. You can also use lean ground turkey instead of beef and opt for whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Cook the pasta and sauce separately, then combine them just before serving. Store both components in airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and warm gently to preserve creaminess.