High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe: A Delicious and Nutritious Meal

If you’re looking for a protein-packed, creamy, and satisfying pasta dish, this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe is perfect for you. It’s easy to prepare, full of rich flavors, and designed to fuel your body with the necessary nutrients while keeping it delicious. Whether you’re following a high-protein diet for muscle gain, weight loss, or just looking for a wholesome family meal, this dish is a fantastic choice.

This recipe falls under Fire House Recipes, meaning it’s hearty and filling enough to satisfy anyone after a long day. It also fits into High Protein Crock Pot Recipes, as you can easily modify it for slow cooking. If you’re searching for Healthy Ground Beef Pasta options that don’t sacrifice taste, this is the meal for you.

Why Choose This High Protein Pasta Recipe?

There are many reasons to love this Protein Forward Meal, but here are some of the top ones:

• Packed with protein – Using lean ground beef and high-protein pasta, this dish provides the fuel your muscles need.
• Rich and creamy – Without being overly heavy, the sauce provides a smooth, satisfying texture.
• Healthier than traditional creamy pasta – We use healthier alternatives to cream and cheese without compromising taste.
• Easy to prepare – This is an Easy Healthy High Protein Dinner, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile – This recipe can be adapted for different diets, such as low-carb or gluten-free options.

Ingredients: What You’ll Need

To make this Healthy Ground Beef Recipe for Dinner, gather the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
• 8 oz high-protein pasta (chickpea, lentil, or whole wheat pasta)
• 1 cup low-fat Greek yogurt or cottage cheese
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk or skim milk
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, no salt added
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1/2 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup spinach or kale (for extra greens)
• 1/2 cup mushrooms (for added umami flavor)
• 1/2 cup bell peppers (for a boost of vitamins)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the High-Protein Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Add the high-protein pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until translucent.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the lean ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Drain any excess fat, if necessary, and season with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Lower the heat to medium-low and add the diced tomatoes to the beef mixture.
2. Pour in the low-sodium beef broth and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the Greek yogurt or blended cottage cheese.
4. Add the almond milk (or skim milk) to create a creamy consistency.
5. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes, ensuring it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked high-protein pasta to the skillet, stirring well to coat the pasta with the creamy beef sauce.
2. Sprinkle in shredded cheese and stir until melted and combined.
3. If using spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, add them now and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they soften.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Remove from heat and let the pasta sit for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
3. Serve hot and enjoy this Healthy Ground Beef Pasta!

Tips and Substitutions

• Make it a Crock Pot Recipe: Brown the beef and onions, then add all ingredients (except the pasta and cheese) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Stir in cooked pasta and cheese before serving.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free high-protein pasta (such as chickpea, quinoa, or brown rice pasta).
• Lower Carb Option: Replace the pasta with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles for a keto-friendly version.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute the Greek yogurt with unsweetened coconut yogurt and use dairy-free cheese.
• More Protein: Add lean ground turkey or extra cottage cheese blended into the sauce.

Why This Is One of the Best Protein Pasta Bake Recipes

This dish can also be made into a High Protein Pasta Bake by transferring the pasta mixture into a baking dish, topping it with extra shredded cheese, and baking at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. It’s a fantastic Protein Forward Meal that works well for meal prep and leftovers.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~450 kcal
• Protein: ~40g
• Carbohydrates: ~45g
• Fats: ~12g
• Fiber: ~6g

Meal Prep and Storage

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet with a splash of almond milk or beef broth to retain creaminess.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe is a fantastic addition to your Healthy Ground Beef Pasta meals. It’s packed with muscle-building protein, balanced carbs, and delicious flavors. Whether you enjoy it fresh, as a Protein Pasta Bake, or as a crock pot meal, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking for Easy Healthy High Protein Dinners. Try it today and elevate your meal prep game!

Let us know how you enjoyed this recipe! Do you have a favorite way to customize it? Drop your tips in the comments below!