High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
A delicious and easy-to-prepare creamy beef pasta dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz orecchiette or other pasta The unique shape helps cling to the sauce.
Protein
- 1 lb lean ground beef For that hearty protein boost. Swap with turkey or a plant-based alternative if you prefer.
Creamy Base
- 1 cup heavy cream For that dreamy, creamy texture. Substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Aromatics
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Nothing beats the aroma of fresh garlic!
- 1 medium onion, diced For sweetness and depth.
Vegetables
- 2 cups spinach Adds color and nutrition—feel free to swap with kale for a stronger flavor.
Cheese & Seasoning
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese For that essential cheesy goodness.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil Just enough to sauté those veggies.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sautéing the Aromatics
- In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
Browning the Beef
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with your spatula as it cooks.
Creating the Creamy Sauce
- Once the beef is browned, lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer gently.
Incorporating the Spinach
- Stir in the spinach and allow it to wilt in the sauce.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated in the creamy sauce.
Finishing the Dish
- Stir in the grated Parmesan, allowing it to melt into the dish. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Serving
- Dish out your High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta into bowls and garnish with extra cheese if desired.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.