High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta for Quick Dinner (Print Version)
High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a quick, satisfying dinner. Lean ground beef, pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce make this a family favorite.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ Sizzling Beef & Aromatics
01 -
1 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7)
02 -
1 tbsp olive oil
03 -
1 medium yellow onion, diced
04 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
→ Hearty Pasta Foundation
05 -
12 oz penne pasta
→ Velvety Cream Sauce
06 -
4 oz cream cheese, softened
07 -
1 cup beef broth (low sodium)
08 -
1/4 cup tomato paste
09 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
10 -
1/2 cup milk (2% or whole)
→ Savory Seasonings & Finish
11 -
1 tsp Italian seasoning
12 -
1/2 tsp garlic powder
13 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
14 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then set aside. This forms the hearty foundation for your High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta for Quick Dinner.
02 -
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb lean ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in 1 medium yellow onion, diced, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
03 -
Add 3 cloves garlic, minced, to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in 1/4 cup tomato paste, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
04 -
Pour in 1 cup beef broth (low sodium) and 1/2 cup milk. Add 4 oz cream cheese, softened, to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This is key to the luscious texture of your High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta for Quick Dinner.
05 -
Add the cooked 12 oz penne pasta to the creamy beef sauce. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached. Ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
06 -
Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve your High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta for Quick Dinner immediately. Garnish each serving with 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for a burst of freshness and color. Enjoy this satisfying meal!
# Notes:
01 -
For the smoothest sauce, ensure your 4 oz cream cheese is softened at room temperature before adding it to the skillet. This helps it melt evenly and prevents lumps.
02 -
Leftovers of this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to restore creaminess.
03 -
Feel free to swap the lean ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a different flavor profile, or add a handful of fresh spinach at the end for extra greens and nutrients.
04 -
This hearty pasta is a complete meal on its own, but pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread for soaking up every last bit of the creamy sauce.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Knife
05 -
Measuring cups
06 -
Measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 795 kcal
Total Fat: 30 g
Total Carbohydrate: 72 g
Protein: 45 g