High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta for Quick Dinner (Print Version)
Quick high-protein creamy beef pasta. This easy dinner is packed with flavor and ready fast, making weeknights delicious and satisfying for the whole family.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian-American
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Foundation
01 -
1 lb lean ground beef (90/10)
02 -
12 oz penne pasta (or other short pasta)
→ Flavorful Aromatics
03 -
1 tbsp olive oil
04 -
1 medium yellow onion, diced
05 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
→ Rich & Creamy Sauce Base
06 -
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
07 -
2 tbsp tomato paste
08 -
1 cup beef broth
09 -
4 oz cream cheese, softened
10 -
1/2 cup whole milk
11 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Finishing Touches & Seasoning
12 -
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
13 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
14 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
15 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Boil a large pot of salted water. Add 12 oz penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water. Set aside. This ensures your High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta for Quick Dinner has perfectly cooked noodles.
02 -
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10) and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain excess fat. Add 1 medium yellow onion, diced, and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in 4 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
03 -
Stir 2 tbsp tomato paste into the beef and onion mixture, cooking for 1 minute. Pour in 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes and 1 cup beef broth. Add 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional). Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
04 -
Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let the sauce simmer for 8-10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering is key for a rich High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta for Quick Dinner.
05 -
Remove the pan from heat. Stir in 4 oz cream cheese, softened, until fully melted and smooth. Gradually whisk in 1/2 cup whole milk and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and well combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
06 -
Add the cooked penne pasta to the creamy beef sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached. Garnish your High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta for Quick Dinner with 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, and serve immediately.
# Notes:
01 -
For an extra veggie boost, sauté a cup of diced bell peppers or spinach with the onion.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed.
03 -
Serve this hearty pasta dish with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread to complete your quick dinner.
04 -
Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier, lump-free blending into the sauce.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Chef's knife
05 -
Measuring cups
06 -
Measuring spoons
07 -
Colander
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 820 kcal
Total Fat: 35 g
Total Carbohydrate: 78 g
Protein: 46 g