Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta (Printable version)

Rich and satisfying pasta loaded with lean beef and creamy sauce for a protein-packed meal.

# What you'll need:

→ Meats

01 - 14 oz lean ground beef

→ Pasta

02 - 10 oz high-protein pasta (lentil or chickpea pasta)

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

03 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 7 oz baby spinach, roughly chopped

→ Sauces & Dairy

06 - 3/4 cup + 2 tbsp low-fat cream cheese
07 - 1/2 cup milk (dairy or protein-enriched plant milk)
08 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Spices & Seasonings

09 - 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
10 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
11 - 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
12 - Pinch of red chili flakes (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the high-protein pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
02 - Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and completely cooked through, about 6 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
03 - Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes.
05 - Reduce heat to low. Stir in the cream cheese and milk, mixing constantly until a smooth, creamy sauce forms. Add the Parmesan, Italian herbs, black pepper, and salt. Simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes.
06 - Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat every piece evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and red chili flakes if desired. Serve hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • You get 45 grams of protein without any protein powder weirdness or dry, cardboard texture
  • The creamy sauce feels indulgent but secretly keeps things light enough for regular weeknight rotation
02 -
  • High-protein pasta can turn to mush if you overcook it, so set a timer for the lower end of the package instructions
  • The sauce thickens up quickly off the heat, so don't panic if it looks slightly thin in the pan
03 -
  • Reserve a half cup of pasta water before draining in case your sauce needs thinning
  • Let the cream cheese soften on the counter while you cook for smoother incorporation

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