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High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

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High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a hearty, comforting one-pot meal made with lean ground beef, protein-rich pasta, and a creamy tomato-based sauce. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
  • 8 oz whole wheat, chickpea, or lentil pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or 4 oz low-fat cream cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1 cup baby spinach or peas

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  3. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  4. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add diced tomatoes and beef broth; simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Reduce heat to low and stir in Greek yogurt or cream cheese until sauce is creamy. Mix in Parmesan cheese.
  6. Add cooked pasta and toss to combine. Use reserved pasta water to loosen sauce if needed.
  7. Stir in baby spinach or peas, if using, until wilted. Serve hot with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Use chickpea or lentil pasta for extra protein and fiber.
  • Lower heat before adding yogurt or cream cheese to prevent curdling.
  • Blend cottage cheese for a tangy, high-protein alternative to yogurt.
  • Add chili flakes for a spicy kick or mushrooms for more veggies.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/high-protein-creamy-beef-pasta/