This Easy High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is just the right mix of hearty and comforting with a creamy sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. Tender ground beef, blended with a rich, cheesy sauce, makes this dish filling and satisfying. It’s a simple meal that comes together quickly but tastes like you spent hours on it.
I love making this recipe when I want something that’s both comforting and packed with protein to keep me going. The creamy sauce is smooth and velvety without being too heavy, and the beef adds a great meaty flavor that everyone in the family loves. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal if you’re short on time or don’t feel like washing a stack of dishes afterwards!
My favorite way to serve this pasta is with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a little extra cheese on top, and maybe a side of steamed veggies or a simple salad. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or even meal prepping for a busy week ahead. Once you try it, you’ll see why this creamy beef pasta becomes a go-to for easy comfort food that’s also good for you.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef gives the dish its hearty protein and rich flavor. If you want a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken—they cook quickly and still keep the protein high.
Cream Cheese & Cheddar: These make the sauce creamy and cheesy. You can swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt or ricotta for a lighter feel. For cheese, Monterey Jack or mozzarella work well too.
Beef Broth: Adds depth and helps make the sauce flavorful. If you don’t have broth, use vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of bouillon.
Smoked Paprika & Italian Seasoning: These seasonings bring warmth and herbaceous notes. Feel free to add chili flakes for a spicy kick or substitute herbs you like such as thyme or rosemary.
Pasta: I love using cavatappi for its fun spiral shape that holds sauce well. Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are easy swaps that work great here.
How Can I Make the Creamy Sauce Smooth and Clump-Free?
Getting a smooth sauce is all about gentle heat and good mixing. Here’s how to nail it:
- Lower the heat to medium-low before adding cream cheese and milk. High heat might cause curdling.
- Stir constantly when melting the cream cheese so it blends fully without lumps.
- Use softened cream cheese at room temperature. This melts faster and blends easier.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more milk or broth to adjust the consistency.
By taking your time on this step, you’ll get a rich, velvety sauce that clings perfectly to your pasta.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling pasta evenly without crowding.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – perfect for cooking ground beef and making the sauce in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for breaking up meat and stirring the sauce gently.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your seasonings and liquids just right.
- Colander – for draining pasta quickly and safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to boost veggies and add texture.
- Stir in some cooked spinach or kale for extra color and nutrients.
- Try a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan for a creamier, tangier sauce.
Easy High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (cavatappi, penne, or your choice)
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
For The Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup beef broth (or stock)
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, 10-12 minutes to cook, totaling around 20-22 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy days.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente. Drain well and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef and Aromatics:
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce and Combine:
Pour the beef broth into the pan, stirring to loosen the browned bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Turn the heat to medium-low, and stir in the milk and softened cream cheese. Keep stirring until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything to coat the pasta well with the creamy beef sauce.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Remove from heat and let the pasta rest for a minute to thicken up the sauce. Serve hot, topped with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if you like.
Enjoy your hearty, creamy, high-protein beef pasta dish!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps with better browning.
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese?
Absolutely! You can use Greek yogurt, ricotta, or even sour cream as a substitute. Keep in mind these may slightly change the texture and tanginess of the sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce seems too thick.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Pasta?
Definitely! Try adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach when you cook the onions for extra flavor and nutrients.
