High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta: A Weeknight Game-Changer

This creamy beef pasta is designed for busy weeknights when you want something comforting, fast, and packed with protein. It combines lean ground beef, a velvety sauce, and whole-grain or legume-based pasta for extra nutrients. For a quick complete meal, pair it with a refreshing high-protein smoothie or a simple green salad.

Why this recipe works

• High in protein from lean ground beef and optionally added Greek yogurt or cottage cheese.
• Creamy texture without needing heavy cream (but you can use it if you prefer).
• One-pan or one-pot options minimize cleanup.
• Flexible: swap pastas, add veggies, or turn it into a bake.

Ingredients (serves 4)

• 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef (90% lean or leaner)
• 8 oz (225 g) pasta (whole-wheat, chickpea, or your favorite)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup low-sodium beef or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup milk (dairy or unsweetened plant milk)
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or 1/2 cup ricotta/cottage cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella (optional)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Optional add-ins: spinach, peas, mushrooms, roasted red peppers.

Quick method (30–35 minutes)

1. Cook pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta 2 minutes less than package directions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
2. Brown beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add chopped onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic 30 seconds, then add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Build the sauce: Stir in tomato paste, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add broth and milk, scraping up browned bits. Bring to a low simmer.
4. Combine: Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir in Greek yogurt (or ricotta) and 1/2 cup shredded cheese if using. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a splash at a time until you reach the desired creaminess.
5. Finish: Taste and adjust seasoning. Stir in fresh herbs and any quick greens (spinach will wilt in the hot sauce). Serve immediately with extra cheese on top.

Tips for maximum protein and flavor

• Use lean ground beef or mix half beef, half ground turkey to boost protein and lower fat.
• Stirring in cottage cheese or Greek yogurt adds protein while keeping the sauce silky.
• Add quick-cooking veggies (peas, spinach, diced zucchini) to increase fiber and micronutrients.
• For smoky depth, swap smoked paprika for a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
• If you like grilling flavors, consider incorporating some grilled vegetables or steaks — for inspiration on great protein choices for the grill, check this guide: high-protein foods that are great for grilling.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Swap beef for crumbled tempeh, firm tofu, or a lentil ragù for a plant-forward protein boost.
• One-pan baked version: After combining ingredients, top with remaining cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes until bubbly.
• Low-carb: Use spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles and reduce milk, using cream cheese or mascarpone for richness.

Make-ahead and storing

• Refrigerate: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
• Freeze: Freeze portions (without fresh herbs) up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Nutrition notes (approximate per serving)

• Calories: ~450–600 (depends on pasta and cheese choices)
• Protein: ~30–40 g (higher if you use legume pasta or add cottage cheese)
• Tips to raise protein: choose legume-based pasta, add extra Greek yogurt, or top with a spoonful of cottage cheese.

Short grocery checklist

• Lean ground beef, pasta (whole-wheat or legume), Greek yogurt or ricotta, shredded cheese (optional), onion, garlic, broth, tomato paste, basic spices, and fresh herbs.

Conclusion

For a tested, flavorful weeknight option that’s both comforting and protein-forward, try this recipe and adapt it to your pantry and tastes. If you’d like another version or inspiration, see the original High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta – Skinny Spatula.