This creamy high-protein beef pasta is a delicious meal that’s quick to make! Juicy ground beef and tender pasta are perfectly mixed with a rich, smooth sauce that’s oh-so-satisfying.
You know it’s a good dinner when the kids come back for seconds! I love serving this with a sprinkle of cheese on top – it makes everything even better. Trust me, it’s a winner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I usually go for whole wheat or high-protein pasta for added nutrition and fiber. If you’re looking for something gluten-free, try chickpea or lentil pasta instead. Both options have great protein content!
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) keeps the dish healthy. You can swap this with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re going meatless, crumbled tofu or cooked lentils work well too!
Cottage Cheese or Ricotta: I love cottage cheese for its creaminess and protein. Ricotta is a great substitute if you want a milder flavor. For a dairy-free option, try blended cashews or silken tofu mixed with a bit of lemon juice.
Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt gives the sauce a creamy texture and extra protein. If you prefer not to use yogurt, try using a dairy-free yogurt or even a splash of heavy cream for a richer flavor.
Cheese: Parmesan adds great flavor. For a different taste, grated Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can be a nice alternative for a vegan option!
How Do You Create A Creamy Sauce Without Heavy Cream?
To create a creamy sauce without heavy cream, the combination of cottage cheese (or ricotta) and Greek yogurt does the trick! Here’s my step-by-step method:
- After browning the beef, lower the heat and add the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt together. This will create a smooth sauce.
- If your sauce is too thick, slowly stir in reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. This step is key, so add carefully!
- Toss everything well to coat the pasta evenly. The warmth from the pasta helps the sauce blend perfectly.
Following these steps ensures you get a creamy texture without the heaviness of traditional creams. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Creamy High-Protein Beef Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) whole wheat or high-protein pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
Meat & Dairy:
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese or ricotta (for creaminess and protein boost)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Veggies & Seasonings:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth or water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy high-protein beef pasta takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and prepping your ingredients, then another 15-20 minutes making the sauce and combining everything. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but be sure to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. Set the cooked pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook it for about 6-8 minutes or until it’s browned and fully cooked. Don’t forget to season it with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and the dried Italian seasoning during this step to enhance the flavor.
4. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the low-sodium beef broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes, which intensifies the flavors. After this, lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the cottage cheese (or ricotta) and Greek yogurt until your sauce is creamy and smooth. If it’s a little thick, just add some of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency!
5. Combine Everything:
Now, it’s time to add in the cooked pasta and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together well so that the pasta is coated evenly in that delicious creamy beef sauce. Give it a taste to see if it needs more seasoning and make adjustments as necessary. Remove it from the heat when you’re satisfied!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy high-protein beef pasta hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or basil, and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you like. This dish is perfect as a comforting meal that you can feel good about!
Enjoy your delightful and nutritious creamy beef pasta that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
FAQ for Creamy High-Protein Beef Pasta
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef. It’s leaner and still provides a good amount of protein. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly until it’s browned and fully cooked through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this creamy pasta dairy-free, substitute cottage cheese with blended silken tofu or cashew cream, and use dairy-free yogurt instead of Greek yogurt. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to help regain creaminess if needed.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can increase the nutritional value and flavor. Sauté them with the onions in step 2 for extra taste and texture in your pasta!
