Easy High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a wonderful dish that brings together tender ground beef, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta all in one bowl. The sauce is rich and smooth, coating every noodle, while the beef adds a hearty boost of protein that keeps you full and satisfied. It’s a go-to meal when you want something comforting but also packed with energy to power through your day.
I love making this recipe on busy nights because it comes together quickly and doesn’t require a lot of fancy ingredients. The creamy sauce feels like a treat, but the high protein content means it’s more than just tasty—it’s nourishing, too. I usually add a sprinkle of cheese on top and sometimes toss in a little spinach for some green goodness without changing the flavor too much.
One of my favorite ways to serve this pasta is with a simple side salad and maybe some garlic bread for dipping into the extra sauce. It’s the kind of meal that everyone seems to enjoy, whether you’re cooking for family or friends. Plus, leftovers taste great the next day, making it an easy and reliable choice all week long.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: Lean ground beef is great for this dish, adding protein without too much fat. If you want a lighter version, try turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, use plant-based beef alternatives or cooked lentils.
Pasta: Fusilli is perfect because its spirals grab the creamy sauce well. You can swap it for penne, rotini, or any shape you like. Whole wheat or legume-based pasta boosts fiber and protein further.
Heavy cream: This makes the sauce rich and smooth. For fewer calories, use half-and-half or Greek yogurt (added off heat to avoid curdling). Coconut milk works for a dairy-free version but changes the taste.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can be a good cheesy substitute. Use a good-quality cheese for best flavor impact.
Red bell pepper: Besides sweetness and color, it adds a mild crunch. You can swap it for yellow or orange peppers, or omit if you prefer.
How Do I Make the Creamy Beef Sauce Thick and Flavorful?
The sauce is the heart of this dish, so getting the right texture and taste matters. Here’s what helps:
- Brown the ground beef well to build rich flavor. Don’t rush this step—let the meat get a nice color.
- Sauté onions and garlic until soft before adding beef. This creates a tasty base.
- Add spices early (paprika, oregano) so they release aroma and deepen flavor.
- Simmer the beef broth and tomato sauce before cream to blend flavors and reduce excess moisture.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan on low heat to avoid curdling and help the sauce thicken.
- If sauce feels too thin, let it simmer gently uncovered to reduce, or add a small pinch of cornstarch mixed with water.
Mix the pasta in the sauce right before serving so each piece gets coated evenly. This makes every bite creamy and delicious.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – to boil the pasta easily and cook it evenly.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – perfect for cooking the beef and making the creamy sauce all in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring without scratching your pan.
- Colander – to drain the pasta quickly and safely.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for adding the right amounts of cream, broth, and spices.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option that still keeps it creamy.
- Add chopped mushrooms with the onions for an earthy flavor and extra nutrition.
- Stir in fresh spinach or kale at the end for a boost of green and added vitamins.
- Mix in some shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese before serving for a cheesier, melty finish.
Easy High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta & Sauce:
- 12 oz (340 g) fusilli pasta (or any spiral pasta)
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth or stock
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 25-30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes boiling the pasta and about 15-20 minutes preparing the savory beef sauce and combining everything. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for busy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s just tender (al dente). Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Beef and Veggies:
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. Then add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce and Combine:
Stir in the diced red bell pepper, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers soften slightly. Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce, stirring everything together. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes to bring out the flavors. Turn the heat down to low, then mix in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook gently for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens up a bit. Finally, toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, mixing well so every noodle is covered in creamy goodness. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. Serve right away while warm and creamy!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. This helps it cook evenly and prevents excess moisture in the pan.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with Something Lighter?
Definitely! You can use half-and-half, whole milk, or Greek yogurt (added off the heat to avoid curdling) for a lighter sauce. Just keep in mind the sauce may be less rich and creamy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce thickened too much.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. Add them when you sauté the onions for best texture and flavor.