High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe for Quick Weeknight Dinners

When weeknights get hectic, nothing beats a comforting bowl of pasta that’s ready in under 30 minutes. But what if your dinner could be both creamy and protein-packed—without sacrificing flavor or time? This high protein creamy beef pasta recipe is designed exactly for that: satisfying your cravings while helping you meet your nutritional goals.

Packed with lean ground beef, chickpea pasta, and a velvety sauce made with cream cheese and sour cream, this meal delivers around 47 grams of protein per serving. It’s ideal for anyone balancing busy evenings, fitness goals, or simply looking for a hearty, macro-friendly dish.

Incorporating more protein into your meals isn’t just a fitness trend—it has genuine health benefits. A high-protein diet can support muscle recovery, promote satiety, and assist with healthy weight management. This dish checks all the boxes: it’s quick, filling, and flavorful.

If you’re new to using alternative pastas like chickpea or lentil pasta, they’re an easy way to boost your protein intake without changing your favorite meals. Learn how to cook them properly with this chickpea pasta guide from Bon Appétit to avoid common mistakes and get the best texture.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef Pasta

• 47 grams of protein per serving
• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Great for meal prep—tastes even better the next day
• Comforting, creamy texture with a healthier profile
• Easy to customize based on your dietary needs

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of everything that goes into this protein-packed pasta:

• Pasta – Chickpea or lentil pasta offers extra protein and fiber.
• Olive Oil – Adds flavor while sautéing the veggies.
• Onion + Green Bell Pepper – Essential aromatics for depth.
• Lean Ground Beef – Use 90% lean or higher to keep the fat content low.
• Garlic, Oregano, Paprika, Salt & Pepper – For bold, savory notes.
• Tomato Paste + Tomato Sauce – Builds a rich, umami base.
• Light Cream Cheese – Adds creamy texture without the heaviness.
• Light Sour Cream – Balances the acidity and rounds out the flavor.
• Fresh Basil Leaves – Brings everything together with a fresh pop.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to whip up your creamy beef pasta in no time:

1. Cook the Pasta
   • Boil in salted water according to the package.
   • Reserve 1–2 cups of pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté Veggies
   • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium.
   • Add finely diced onion and green bell pepper.
   • Cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
3. Brown the Beef
   • Add lean ground beef and break it apart as it browns.
   • Mix in garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer the Tomato Base
   • Stir in tomato paste and tomato sauce.
   • Let simmer for 4–5 minutes for depth of flavor.
5. Make It Creamy
   • Add cream cheese and sour cream.
   • Stir until fully melted and sauce is smooth.
6. Combine Pasta + Sauce
   • Add drained pasta and toss to coat.
   • Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
7. Finish & Serve
   • Tear fresh basil over the top.
   • Adjust seasoning and serve hot.

Smart Ingredient Swaps

This recipe is flexible—here are some healthy and creative substitutions:

• Ground Beef Alternatives:
  • Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles
• Dairy Alternatives:
  • Greek yogurt instead of sour cream (adds extra protein!)
    • See full Greek yogurt nutritional profile
• Extra Veggies:
  • Mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or shredded carrots
• Pasta Options:
  • Whole wheat, gluten-free, or quinoa pasta

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Beef Pasta

• Don’t skip the pasta water! It helps the sauce cling to the noodles.
• Add cream cheese and sour cream at the end to prevent curdling.
• Cook onions and peppers slowly to bring out their sweetness.
• Want leftovers? Double the recipe—it reheats beautifully!

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 568
• Protein: 47g
• Carbs: 55g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 13g
• Cholesterol: 97mg
• Sodium: 929mg

This is an excellent post-workout meal or a filling dinner that keeps you on track with your macros.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Microwave or warm on the stovetop with a splash of milk or water.
• Freeze: Portion into containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What to Serve With It

Keep your side dishes simple and fresh to complement the creamy richness of the pasta:

• Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Roasted broccoli or asparagus
• Garlic toast or whole grain bread
• Mixed berries with Greek yogurt for dessert

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the healthiest high-protein pasta to use?
Chickpea, lentil, and edamame pasta are among the highest in protein and fiber. Look for brands with minimal ingredients.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use vegan cream cheese and yogurt alternatives, or simply add blended cashews with water for a creamy base.

How do I keep the pasta from drying out?
Reserve pasta water and add it when reheating. You can also add a splash of milk to maintain the creaminess.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely. It stores well and the flavors deepen after a day. Great for bulk lunches!

Can I use another protein besides beef?
Yes—ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu crumbles work well in this recipe.