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High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Quick and Easy Recipe

by on March 3, 2025

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Are you looking for a quick meal packed with protein and flavor? This High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta recipe is your answer. It blends whole wheat pasta with lean ground beef and a rich, creamy sauce made from Greek yogurt and low-fat cream cheese. With easy steps and simple ingredients, you’ll create a dish your family will love. Let’s dive into the details and cook up something delicious!

- Whole wheat pasta: Use either penne or fusilli for good texture. - Lean ground beef: Choose ground beef with low fat for a healthy option. - Creamy components: Greek yogurt adds protein, while low-fat cream cheese gives creaminess. - Spices: Use garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika for flavor. - Salt and pepper: Add to taste for the perfect seasoning. - Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley makes a bright garnish on top. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, fill a large pot with water and add salt. Bring it to a boil. You want enough water to allow the pasta to move freely. Add 8 ounces of whole wheat pasta, like penne or fusilli. Cook it according to the package directions until it's al dente, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Don't forget to reserve some pasta water! Set aside 1/2 cup of it before draining the pasta. This starchy water can help make your sauce creamier later. In a large skillet, heat over medium heat. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef. Cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir it often until it turns brown and crumbles. If there's extra fat, drain it off. Next, season the beef. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir well so the beef is coated evenly with these flavors. Now it's time to make the sauce. Pour in 1 cup of beef broth and stir it with the seasoned beef. Let this mixture simmer gently for about 2 to 3 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend together. Next, reduce the heat to low. Add 1 cup of Greek yogurt and 1/2 cup of low-fat cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until both are melted. This creates that rich, creamy sauce you want. Gently toss the drained pasta into the creamy beef mixture. Mix everything together well. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess. Now, fold in 1 cup of fresh baby spinach. Let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach wilts. Finally, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. Now you're ready to enjoy your high-protein creamy beef pasta! To boost the protein in your creamy beef pasta, consider adding more protein sources. Here are some simple ideas: - Turkey or Chicken: Swap lean ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Both are high in protein and lower in fat. - Beans or Lentils: Add cooked beans or lentils for extra protein and fiber. They also enhance texture. - Cottage Cheese: Mixing in low-fat cottage cheese adds creaminess and protein without many extra calories. Achieving just the right creaminess can make or break your dish. Here’s how to adjust the texture: - Use Reserved Pasta Water: As you combine the pasta with the sauce, add the reserved pasta water gradually. This starchy water helps the sauce cling to the pasta better. - Add More Greek Yogurt: If you want a creamier sauce without extra calories, you can add a bit more Greek yogurt. It adds tang and keeps the dish light. - Creamy Alternatives: For a richer taste, consider adding a splash of unsweetened almond milk or any low-fat milk. This will enhance the creaminess without making it heavy. Pro Tips Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality lean ground beef for better flavor and texture in your pasta dish. Cooking Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. Adjusting Creaminess: If the sauce is too thick, gradually add more reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Fresh Spinach: Add the spinach at the end to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients, ensuring it wilts just before serving. {{image_4}} You can easily change this recipe to fit your needs. If you want gluten-free pasta, try using brown rice or chickpea pasta. These options taste great and keep the protein high. For dairy-free alternatives, swap Greek yogurt and cream cheese for coconut yogurt or cashew cream. Both choices will give you a creamy sauce without dairy. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, you can replace the beef with lentils or mushrooms. Lentils add protein, while mushrooms give a nice texture. You can sauté them just like the beef for a hearty meal. Adding vegetables is an easy way to boost nutrition. You can toss in broccoli or bell peppers. Just steam them lightly before adding to the pasta. This keeps their crunch and color. Customizing spices and herbs makes this dish your own. Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or fresh basil for a twist. You could also mix in a splash of lemon juice for brightness. These simple changes can create unique flavors each time you make it. To keep your creamy beef pasta fresh, follow these steps: - Cool it down: Let the pasta cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. - Use the right container: Store it in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss. - Label and date: Write the date on the container for easy tracking. - Refrigerate promptly: Place the container in the fridge within two hours to keep it safe. The pasta should stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Reheating creamy beef pasta can be tricky. You want to keep it creamy, not dry or tough. Here’s how to do it right: - Stovetop method: Place the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. Stir gently to combine. - Microwave method: Transfer the pasta to a microwave-safe dish. Add a tablespoon of broth or water. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or wrap. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Make sure to check the temperature. The pasta should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat. Enjoy your delicious leftovers! You can use Greek yogurt as a substitute. It adds creaminess and protein. Other options include silken tofu or cashew cream for a vegan choice. Both of these will give you a rich texture and flavor. Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. Cook the pasta and beef, then store them separately. Keep the creamy sauce in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, just combine and heat it. Look for a brown color throughout the beef. It should not be pink in the middle. The beef should also crumble easily when stirred. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for safety. This blog post shared how to make high-protein creamy beef pasta. We covered the main ingredients like whole wheat pasta, lean beef, and creamy Greek yogurt. I shared step-by-step cooking tips, seasoning suggestions, and how to combine all the flavors. Don't forget to store leftovers properly and reheat gently for the best taste. Experiment with variations to suit your diet. With these tips, you can enjoy a tasty, healthy meal that fits your needs. Enjoy cooking and feel proud of your delicious dish!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. High in Protein: This creamy beef pasta is packed with protein from lean ground beef and Greek yogurt, making it a satisfying meal that fuels your body.
  2. Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal on the table fast.
  3. Flavorful and Creamy: The combination of low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt creates a rich, creamy sauce that elevates the flavor of the dish.
  4. Nutritious Ingredients: Using whole wheat pasta and fresh spinach adds fiber and nutrients, making this dish a healthier choice without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

– Whole wheat pasta: Use either penne or fusilli for good texture.

– Lean ground beef: Choose ground beef with low fat for a healthy option.

– Creamy components: Greek yogurt adds protein, while low-fat cream cheese gives creaminess.

Seasoning & Garnishes

– Spices: Use garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika for flavor.

– Salt and pepper: Add to taste for the perfect seasoning.

– Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley makes a bright garnish on top.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

First, fill a large pot with water and add salt. Bring it to a boil. You want enough water to allow the pasta to move freely. Add 8 ounces of whole wheat pasta, like penne or fusilli. Cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes.

Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water! Set aside 1/2 cup of it before draining the pasta. This starchy water can help make your sauce creamier later.

Browning and Seasoning the Beef

In a large skillet, heat over medium heat. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef. Cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir it often until it turns brown and crumbles. If there’s extra fat, drain it off.

Next, season the beef. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir well so the beef is coated evenly with these flavors.

Creating the Creamy Sauce

Now it’s time to make the sauce. Pour in 1 cup of beef broth and stir it with the seasoned beef. Let this mixture simmer gently for about 2 to 3 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend together.

Next, reduce the heat to low. Add 1 cup of Greek yogurt and 1/2 cup of low-fat cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until both are melted. This creates that rich, creamy sauce you want.

Combining Ingredients

Gently toss the drained pasta into the creamy beef mixture. Mix everything together well. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess.

Now, fold in 1 cup of fresh baby spinach. Let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach wilts. Finally, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. Now you’re ready to enjoy your high-protein creamy beef pasta!

Tips & Tricks

Enhancing Protein Content

To boost the protein in your creamy beef pasta, consider adding more protein sources. Here are some simple ideas:

– Turkey or Chicken: Swap lean ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Both are high in protein and lower in fat.

– Beans or Lentils: Add cooked beans or lentils for extra protein and fiber. They also enhance texture.

– Cottage Cheese: Mixing in low-fat cottage cheese adds creaminess and protein without many extra calories.

Achieving the Perfect Creaminess

Achieving just the right creaminess can make or break your dish. Here’s how to adjust the texture:

– Use Reserved Pasta Water: As you combine the pasta with the sauce, add the reserved pasta water gradually. This starchy water helps the sauce cling to the pasta better.

– Add More Greek Yogurt: If you want a creamier sauce without extra calories, you can add a bit more Greek yogurt. It adds tang and keeps the dish light.

– Creamy Alternatives: For a richer taste, consider adding a splash of unsweetened almond milk or any low-fat milk. This will enhance the creaminess without making it heavy.

Pro Tips

  1. Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality lean ground beef for better flavor and texture in your pasta dish.
  2. Cooking Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
  3. Adjusting Creaminess: If the sauce is too thick, gradually add more reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
  4. Fresh Spinach: Add the spinach at the end to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients, ensuring it wilts just before serving.

Variations

Dietary Adaptations

You can easily change this recipe to fit your needs. If you want gluten-free pasta, try using brown rice or chickpea pasta. These options taste great and keep the protein high. For dairy-free alternatives, swap Greek yogurt and cream cheese for coconut yogurt or cashew cream. Both choices will give you a creamy sauce without dairy.

If you prefer a vegetarian dish, you can replace the beef with lentils or mushrooms. Lentils add protein, while mushrooms give a nice texture. You can sauté them just like the beef for a hearty meal.

Flavor Enhancements

Adding vegetables is an easy way to boost nutrition. You can toss in broccoli or bell peppers. Just steam them lightly before adding to the pasta. This keeps their crunch and color.

Customizing spices and herbs makes this dish your own. Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or fresh basil for a twist. You could also mix in a splash of lemon juice for brightness. These simple changes can create unique flavors each time you make it.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your creamy beef pasta fresh, follow these steps:

– Cool it down: Let the pasta cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

– Use the right container: Store it in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss.

– Label and date: Write the date on the container for easy tracking.

– Refrigerate promptly: Place the container in the fridge within two hours to keep it safe.

The pasta should stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.

Reheating Instructions

Reheating creamy beef pasta can be tricky. You want to keep it creamy, not dry or tough. Here’s how to do it right:

– Stovetop method: Place the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. Stir gently to combine.

– Microwave method: Transfer the pasta to a microwave-safe dish. Add a tablespoon of broth or water. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or wrap. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Make sure to check the temperature. The pasta should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!

FAQs

What can I substitute for cream cheese in this recipe?

You can use Greek yogurt as a substitute. It adds creaminess and protein. Other options include silken tofu or cashew cream for a vegan choice. Both of these will give you a rich texture and flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. Cook the pasta and beef, then store them separately. Keep the creamy sauce in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, just combine and heat it.

How do I know when the beef is fully cooked?

Look for a brown color throughout the beef. It should not be pink in the middle. The beef should also crumble easily when stirred. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for safety.

This blog post shared how to make high-protein creamy beef pasta. We covered the main ingredients like whole wheat pasta, lean beef, and creamy Greek yogurt. I shared step-by-step cooking tips, seasoning suggestions, and how to combine all the flavors. Don’t forget to store leftovers properly and reheat gently for the best taste. Experiment with variations to suit your diet. With these tips, you can enjoy a tasty, healthy meal that fits your needs. Enjoy cooking and feel proud of your delicious dis

- Whole wheat pasta: Use either penne or fusilli for good texture. - Lean ground beef: Choose ground beef with low fat for a healthy option. - Creamy components: Greek yogurt adds protein, while low-fat cream cheese gives creaminess. - Spices: Use garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika for flavor. - Salt and pepper: Add to taste for the perfect seasoning. - Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley makes a bright garnish on top. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, fill a large pot with water and add salt. Bring it to a boil. You want enough water to allow the pasta to move freely. Add 8 ounces of whole wheat pasta, like penne or fusilli. Cook it according to the package directions until it's al dente, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Don't forget to reserve some pasta water! Set aside 1/2 cup of it before draining the pasta. This starchy water can help make your sauce creamier later. In a large skillet, heat over medium heat. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef. Cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir it often until it turns brown and crumbles. If there's extra fat, drain it off. Next, season the beef. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir well so the beef is coated evenly with these flavors. Now it's time to make the sauce. Pour in 1 cup of beef broth and stir it with the seasoned beef. Let this mixture simmer gently for about 2 to 3 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend together. Next, reduce the heat to low. Add 1 cup of Greek yogurt and 1/2 cup of low-fat cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until both are melted. This creates that rich, creamy sauce you want. Gently toss the drained pasta into the creamy beef mixture. Mix everything together well. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess. Now, fold in 1 cup of fresh baby spinach. Let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach wilts. Finally, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. Now you're ready to enjoy your high-protein creamy beef pasta! To boost the protein in your creamy beef pasta, consider adding more protein sources. Here are some simple ideas: - Turkey or Chicken: Swap lean ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Both are high in protein and lower in fat. - Beans or Lentils: Add cooked beans or lentils for extra protein and fiber. They also enhance texture. - Cottage Cheese: Mixing in low-fat cottage cheese adds creaminess and protein without many extra calories. Achieving just the right creaminess can make or break your dish. Here’s how to adjust the texture: - Use Reserved Pasta Water: As you combine the pasta with the sauce, add the reserved pasta water gradually. This starchy water helps the sauce cling to the pasta better. - Add More Greek Yogurt: If you want a creamier sauce without extra calories, you can add a bit more Greek yogurt. It adds tang and keeps the dish light. - Creamy Alternatives: For a richer taste, consider adding a splash of unsweetened almond milk or any low-fat milk. This will enhance the creaminess without making it heavy. Pro Tips Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality lean ground beef for better flavor and texture in your pasta dish. Cooking Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. Adjusting Creaminess: If the sauce is too thick, gradually add more reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Fresh Spinach: Add the spinach at the end to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients, ensuring it wilts just before serving. {{image_4}} You can easily change this recipe to fit your needs. If you want gluten-free pasta, try using brown rice or chickpea pasta. These options taste great and keep the protein high. For dairy-free alternatives, swap Greek yogurt and cream cheese for coconut yogurt or cashew cream. Both choices will give you a creamy sauce without dairy. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, you can replace the beef with lentils or mushrooms. Lentils add protein, while mushrooms give a nice texture. You can sauté them just like the beef for a hearty meal. Adding vegetables is an easy way to boost nutrition. You can toss in broccoli or bell peppers. Just steam them lightly before adding to the pasta. This keeps their crunch and color. Customizing spices and herbs makes this dish your own. Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or fresh basil for a twist. You could also mix in a splash of lemon juice for brightness. These simple changes can create unique flavors each time you make it. To keep your creamy beef pasta fresh, follow these steps: - Cool it down: Let the pasta cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. - Use the right container: Store it in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss. - Label and date: Write the date on the container for easy tracking. - Refrigerate promptly: Place the container in the fridge within two hours to keep it safe. The pasta should stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Reheating creamy beef pasta can be tricky. You want to keep it creamy, not dry or tough. Here’s how to do it right: - Stovetop method: Place the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. Stir gently to combine. - Microwave method: Transfer the pasta to a microwave-safe dish. Add a tablespoon of broth or water. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or wrap. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Make sure to check the temperature. The pasta should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat. Enjoy your delicious leftovers! You can use Greek yogurt as a substitute. It adds creaminess and protein. Other options include silken tofu or cashew cream for a vegan choice. Both of these will give you a rich texture and flavor. Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. Cook the pasta and beef, then store them separately. Keep the creamy sauce in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, just combine and heat it. Look for a brown color throughout the beef. It should not be pink in the middle. The beef should also crumble easily when stirred. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for safety. This blog post shared how to make high-protein creamy beef pasta. We covered the main ingredients like whole wheat pasta, lean beef, and creamy Greek yogurt. I shared step-by-step cooking tips, seasoning suggestions, and how to combine all the flavors. Don't forget to store leftovers properly and reheat gently for the best taste. Experiment with variations to suit your diet. With these tips, you can enjoy a tasty, healthy meal that fits your needs. Enjoy cooking and feel proud of your delicious dish!

High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

A delicious and creamy pasta dish packed with protein from lean ground beef and Greek yogurt.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces whole wheat pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 2 cup low-fat cream cheese
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup fresh baby spinach
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta while reserving 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water. Set both aside.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease if needed.
  • Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the browned beef. Stir well to evenly coat the meat with the seasonings.
  • Pour the beef broth into the skillet, stirring to combine with the seasoned beef. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 2-3 minutes for the flavors to meld.
  • Reduce the heat to low. Add the Greek yogurt and low-fat cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until both have melted and integrated into a smooth, creamy sauce.
  • Gently add the drained pasta to the creamy beef mixture. Toss everything together to combine, adding the reserved pasta water gradually as needed to reach your desired creaminess.
  • Fold in the fresh baby spinach and allow to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, just until the spinach is wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
  • Plate the creamy beef pasta while hot, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for an added touch of color and freshness.

Notes

Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste.
Keyword beef, creamy, high protein, pasta, quick meal

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