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High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

A hearty, high-protein pasta made with savory beef, a rich creamy sauce, and tender pasta. Perfect for quick, filling weeknight dinners.
Prep Time: 10 minutesCook Time: 25 minutesTotal Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4Course: Main CourseCuisine: American / Italian-Inspired

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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz pasta penne, rigatoni, or shells
  • 1 lb lean ground beef 90/10 preferred
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • ¾ cup beef broth
  • ¾ cup heavy cream or high-protein cream alternative
  • ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water as needed
  • Optional Protein Boost
  • ½ cup blended cottage cheese or Greek yogurt stir in off heat

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
  3. Brown the Beef
  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned and slightly crispy. Drain excess fat if needed.
  5. Build Flavor
  6. Add onion and cook until softened. Stir in garlic, paprika, and Italian seasoning until fragrant.
  7. Make the Sauce
  8. Pour in beef broth and cream. Simmer gently until slightly thickened.
  9. Combine
  10. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Add pasta water as needed.
  11. Finish
  12. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan (and optional protein boost). Season to taste and serve warm.