When you're craving a comforting yet nutritious meal, this high-protein creamy beef pasta is just what you need. It’s an easy one-pan dinner that combines tender ground beef, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta all in one skillet. You'll love how quickly it comes together without compromising on flavor.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty, satisfying, and packed with protein to fuel your evening. Plus, cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in a single pan!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy one-pan method saves time and reduces mess.
- High-protein content helps keep you full and energized.
- Rich, creamy sauce that’s comforting without being heavy.
- Uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
- Versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite veggies or spices.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your high-protein creamy beef pasta come together in no time.
- 12 ounces dry penne pasta
- 1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
How to Make High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta (Easy One-Pan Dinner)
- Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-7 minutes. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, smoked paprika, oregano, and black pepper.
- Pour in the beef broth and milk, then stir in the dry penne pasta. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cover the pan with a lid.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove the lid and stir in the cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Adjust seasoning with the remaining salt if needed.
- Allow the pasta to cook uncovered for an additional 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and keep the sauce creamy.
- Stir the pasta frequently while it cooks to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
- Feel free to swap penne for another short pasta like rigatoni or rotini.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover creamy beef pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess, stirring occasionally.
You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Avoid microwaving straight from frozen to keep the sauce smooth and prevent uneven heating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes! Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or rotini work best because they hold the sauce well. Avoid long pasta like spaghetti, which may not cook evenly in this one-pan method.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
You can substitute the milk and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives like almond milk and vegan cream cheese. Keep in mind the sauce texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
Absolutely! Stir in quick-cooking vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra nutrients and flavor.
How do I know when the pasta is perfectly cooked?
Check the pasta around 12 minutes by tasting a piece. It should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite (al dente). If it’s too firm, continue cooking and check every minute or two.