I love quick meals that pack a punch, and my Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta does just that. It is rich, simple, and ready in about 30 minutes, so I make it on busy weeknights and weekend nights alike. If you like bold comfort food, you might also enjoy my take on a creamy soup with lots of protein: a high protein creamy taco soup that is great for meal prep.
Dad James always asked for seconds when I first made this for the family. Mom Eva said it smelled like home, and Sister Jennifer wanted the recipe the next day.
What You’ll Need
- 8 oz pasta (your choice)
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
My Trusted Kitchen Tools
I keep things simple: a large pot for the pasta, a large skillet for the sauce, a wooden spoon, and a colander. For a one pan meal, these tools match what I use in my high protein creamy taco soup post.
Bringing It All Together
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente and drain.
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
- Add the shredded cheese, salt, and pepper and stir until the sauce is creamy.
- Mix in the cooked pasta until it is well coated.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Making It Your Own (Swaps & Ideas)
Swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish. Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for more fiber and protein. Stir in cooked veggies like spinach or peas for color and nutrition. Add red pepper flakes for heat or a squeeze of lemon to brighten the sauce.
How We Love to Serve It
We eat this with a light salad or steamed broccoli on the side. For extra garlic and cheese notes, try pairing it with ideas from my creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta post for a full meal plan.
A Few Tips For Success
Use pasta cooked al dente so it keeps its bite in the sauce. Let the cream warm before adding cheese to help it melt smoothly. Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end.
Saving Some For Later
Cool leftovers quickly, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
From My Kitchen to Yours
I hope this simple, high protein dish becomes a family favorite for you too. I write these recipes so you can cook with less fuss and more joy. Send me a note if you try it — I love hearing what you change or add.
Your Questions, Answered
How long does Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta take to make?
I can make this dish in about 25 to 30 minutes from start to finish, most time is hands off while the pasta cooks.
Can I make Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta ahead of time?
Yes. Cook it, cool it, and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to keep the sauce smooth.
Is Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta good for meal prep?
Yes. It stores well in meal containers and reheats nicely, making it a great option for work lunches or quick dinners.
Print
Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: High Protein
Description
A rich and creamy pasta dish loaded with protein, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (your choice)
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente and drain.
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
- Add the shredded cheese, salt, and pepper and stir until the sauce is creamy.
- Mix in the cooked pasta until it is well coated.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for more fiber. Add veggies like spinach for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: pasta, beef, high protein, creamy, quick meals