If you’re looking for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious, look no further than this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta. Packed with protein-rich pasta, tender lean ground beef, and a dreamy, creamy sauce that feels totally indulgent without being heavy, this dish is a weeknight dinner hero and a true meal prep favorite. With every bite, you’ll enjoy a mix of classic comfort and a fresh twist—all while fueling your body the smart (and totally delicious) way.

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I absolutely love about making High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is that the ingredient list is so refreshingly simple, yet every single component plays a starring role. From the robust flavor of lean beef to the luscious creaminess of light cheese and the brightness of fresh basil, each element brings something essential to the table.

Chickpea flour pasta: This high-protein alternative holds its shape beautifully and adds a nutty flavor to the dish.
Olive oil: Just a tablespoon is enough to soften veggies and start building rich flavor.
Onion: Diced finely, it lays the groundwork for a savory, aromatic sauce.
Green bell pepper: Adds color, freshness, and a slight crunch that livens up every forkful.
Lean ground beef: The backbone of your protein punch; go for 90% lean or higher.
Garlic cloves: Crushed garlic infuses warmth and complexity into the sauce.
Dried oregano: A classic Italian herb that always brings a homey, familiar taste.
Paprika: Adds a subtle depth of flavor and a lovely warm hue.
Salt: Just the right amount brings all the flavors together.
Ground black pepper: A gentle kick balances the creamy, savory notes.
Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor for a rich, robust sauce foundation.
Tomato sauce (passata): Use a smooth, quality tomato passata for best results.
Light cream cheese: Melts into the sauce for an ultra-smooth and creamy texture without the extra fat.
Light sour cream: Adds tang and creaminess, making the sauce irresistible.
Fresh basil leaves: Torn at the end for a burst of freshness and color to finish the dish.

How to Make High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add your chickpea flour pasta, giving it a good stir to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions until just al dente, then reserve 1–2 cups of the pasta water before draining. That starchy pasta water will be your secret weapon for the creamiest final dish. Set the drained pasta aside as you move on to the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet, then toss in the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. This quick step builds a tasty foundation before the real stars—beef and creamy sauce—hit the pan.

Step 3: Brown the Beef and Season

Add the lean ground beef into your hot skillet, breaking it up with a spatula so it cooks evenly. Let it brown for several minutes, stirring as needed. Once the meat is cooked through, add your crushed garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute to let the spices and aromatics become fragrant and delicious.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Spoon in the tomato paste and pour over the tomato sauce (passata). Stir everything together so the meat is coated in that rich, tomatoey goodness. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and concentrate.

Step 5: Create Creamy Perfection

Add the light cream cheese and light sour cream directly into the skillet. Stir gently until they melt into the sauce, transforming it into a velvety, creamy consistency. If the sauce seems a bit thick, splash in some of the reserved pasta water until it’s just how you like it.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Tip the cooked pasta into your skillet and toss everything together, ensuring each piece of pasta is thoroughly coated with the creamy beef sauce. You want every bite of your High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta to be bursting with flavor and perfectly creamy!

Step 7: Finish With Fresh Basil

Turn off the heat and tear fresh basil leaves right into your pan. Give one last gentle toss, taste for seasoning, and serve immediately while it’s hot and heavenly.

How to Serve High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

Garnishes

This dish absolutely sings with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and a scattering of more torn basil. For a finishing touch, a light dusting of grated parmesan or a few chili flakes will add extra depth—or a little kick if you like things spicy!

Side Dishes

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is quite filling, but it always pairs beautifully with a crisp, tangy green salad or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread is another classic companion, perfect for scooping up any extra sauce left on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving it in individual bowls for a cozy, inviting feel, or spoon it into a big family-style dish for everyone to dig in. For a fun twist, you can even use it as a creamy filling for bell pepper boats or serve over a bed of spiralized zucchini for a high-protein, low-carb contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta to cool to room temperature. Portion it into airtight containers and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days without losing its creamy texture or flavor.

Freezing

This dish freezes well! Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months; just be aware that the sauce may thicken slightly upon thawing, but a splash of pasta water or milk will easily bring it back to creamy life.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through to ensure even warmth, or gently warm on the stovetop over low heat. Add a bit of reserved pasta water or a spoonful of milk to help restore the original creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of chickpea flour pasta?

Absolutely! While chickpea flour or any high-protein pasta boosts the overall protein content, this recipe works well with traditional pasta varieties, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just be mindful that the protein content will change.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can! Simply swap the light cream cheese and sour cream for your favorite plant-based alternatives. Many vegan cream cheeses and dairy-free sour creams melt beautifully into the sauce and keep it creamy.

What makes this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta healthier than classic beef pastas?

By using lean ground beef, high-protein pasta, and light dairy products, you’re skipping unnecessary fat and extra calories—yet keeping all of the comforting flavor and richness you love. It’s a nutritional upgrade without compromising taste.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or even finely shredded carrots can be sautéed along with the onions and peppers for added fiber, nutrition, and color. The sauce is robust enough to handle plenty of veggie additions.

Is this dish meal prep friendly?

Yes! High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is the ultimate meal prep star. It reheats beautifully and keeps its creamy texture, making grab-and-go lunches or busy weeknight dinners genuinely exciting.

Final Thoughts

If you’re on the lookout for a new go-to weeknight dinner or a smart meal prep solution, this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta checks every box. It’s flavorful, filling, and truly delicious—plus it’s a great way to enjoy comfort food while nourishing your body. I hope you’ll give it a try and make it a regular in your recipe rotation!