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High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

A close-up of a bowl of high protein creamy beef pasta, garnished with fresh parsley.

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A quick and creamy ground beef pasta recipe perfect for busy weeknights, designed to support fitness goals with a satisfying, cheesy finish.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 12 ounces high-protein pasta (like chickpea or lentil pasta)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  3. Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  4. Pour in crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • For meal prep, store cooled pasta in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

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