High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a deliciously hearty dish that brings comfort food to a whole new level. This creamy pasta combines tender lean beef with wholesome ingredients, making it not only satisfying but also packed with protein. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Follow along to learn how to make this rich and flavorful meal that’s both easy and nutritious.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 460
- Protein: 34 grams
- Carbohydrates: 45 grams
- Fat: 18 grams
- Fiber: 5 grams
- Sugar: 4 grams
- Sodium: 600 mg
Why Make This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is not just delicious; it’s also a fantastic way to fuel your body with essential nutrients. The combination of whole wheat pasta and lean ground beef provides a solid protein base, while the low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt add creaminess without the extra calories. The added vegetables, such as spinach and bell peppers, boost the dish’s nutritional profile, making it a well-rounded meal perfect for any time of day. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for families with busy schedules.
How to Make High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
Ingredients:
- 250 grams of whole wheat pasta
- 500 grams of lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup low-fat cream cheese
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups low sodium beef broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Boil water in a large pot and cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
-
Step 2: Sautéing Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
-
Step 3: Cooking the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Stir in the diced red bell pepper and chopped spinach, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
-
Step 4: Forming the Sauce
Season the beef and vegetables with dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the low-fat cream cheese to the skillet, stirring continuously until it melts and forms a creamy sauce. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Allow the mixture to cook until it slightly thickens, about 5 minutes. Lower the heat and stir in the plain Greek yogurt and grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring the mixture is well combined. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, gently tossing it in the creamy beef sauce to coat evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
How to Serve High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
Serve this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How to Store High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
To store leftover High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to restore the creamy texture.
Expert Tips for Perfect High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
- For a more robust flavor, consider adding spices such as crushed red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning.
- If you’re looking to lighten the recipe further, you can substitute some of the beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.
- Feel free to mix in other veggies you have on hand, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli.
- Add extra cheese for a richer taste or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for some crunch.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
- Cheesy Twist: Mix in some shredded mozzarella cheese for an extra cheesy version of this creamy pasta.
- Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to spice things up.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, but whole wheat offers more fiber and nutrients for a healthier option. -
Is this dish good for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge and can be easily reheated, making it a great meal prep choice for busy weeks. -
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
A dairy-free cream cheese or cashew cream can be used in place of regular cream cheese for a lighter or vegan version. -
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free pasta and checking the other ingredients for gluten-free options, you can enjoy this dish without gluten. -
How do I make it spicier?
Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the beef mixture for an extra spicy kick.
Conclusion
High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a versatile dish that caters to both flavor seekers and health-conscious eaters. Its creamy texture, nutritious ingredients, and quick prep make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. So grab your apron and give this recipe a try—you’ll love the satisfaction that comes from creating such a delightful meal for your family!
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High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: High Protein
Description
A deliciously hearty creamy pasta that combines tender lean beef with wholesome ingredients, packed with protein and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 250 grams of whole wheat pasta
- 500 grams of lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup low-fat cream cheese
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups low sodium beef broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot and cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Stir in the diced red bell pepper and chopped spinach, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Season the beef and vegetables with dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the low-fat cream cheese to the skillet, stirring continuously until it melts and forms a creamy sauce. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Allow the mixture to cook until it slightly thickens, about 5 minutes. Lower the heat and stir in the plain Greek yogurt and grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring the mixture is well combined. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, gently tossing it in the creamy beef sauce to coat evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Notes
To store leftovers, allow to cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
