Description
Discover how to make creamy high protein beef pasta with our step-by-step guide. Easy to cook and bursting with the best flavor!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup milk or half & half (more if needed for consistency)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or similar)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, optional
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
- 2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until deeply browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat.
- 3. Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste; cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 4. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
- 5. Reduce heat to low. Add softened cream cheese in chunks and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- 6. Remove from heat. Stir in shredded Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted. If using, add spinach and stir until wilted.
- 7. Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water or milk, a splash at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
- 8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins