Name: High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz Fettuccine Pasta; 1 lb Lean Ground Beef; 3 cloves Garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian Seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup Heavy Cream; 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese; 2 cups Fresh Spinach

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Introduction

This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a deliciously satisfying dish that combines tender ground beef with a rich, creamy sauce. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it’s perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner that will please the whole family.

A close-up of a black pan filled with cooked penne pasta mixed with browned ground meat and small bits of green herbs, covered in a creamy beige sauce with visible black pepper specks being poured from a spoon, steam rising from the hot food showing heat, the pasta and meat are well coated with the sauce creating a rich texture, the sauce is smooth and glossy, the pan sits on a stove with part of a green handle visible, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz Fettuccine Pasta
1 lb Lean Ground Beef
1 cup Heavy Cream
1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
3 cloves Garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian Seasoning
2 cups Fresh Spinach
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and reserve 1 cup of the pasta water.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the lean ground beef, breaking it into small pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Step 3: Push the beef to one side of the skillet and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Stir in the heavy cream and gradually add the Parmesan cheese, mixing continuously until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Step 5: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and gently stir until it wilts into the sauce.
Step 6: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing well to coat with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
Swap fresh spinach for kale or arugula for a different green.
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Top with extra Parmesan or freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

A black plate filled with about three layers of penne pasta mixed with a thick, creamy meat sauce that is light brown with small red tomato pieces. The top layer is sprinkled with finely grated white cheese and chopped green herbs. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface with fresh green basil leaves and bright red cherry tomatoes around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape you prefer will work. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative, although the flavor and texture will vary slightly.