Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta
This delectable dish combines rich flavors of lean ground beef with a velvety cream sauce, making it a delightful and nutritious dinner option that's easy to prepare.
Ingrédients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli) Choose your preferred type of pasta.
- 1 lb lean ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
- 1 cup heavy cream For a lighter option, consider half-and-half or coconut cream.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., mozzarella or cheddar) Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Alternatively, use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic enhances the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt Adjust according to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Freshly cracked for more flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Can substitute with cooking spray.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley for garnish Optional for serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients: pasta, ground beef, heavy cream, cheeses, garlic, and spices.
Cooking the Pasta
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sautéing
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add lean ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Making the Sauce
- Stir in heavy cream, salt, and black pepper. Let simmer for a couple of minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add cooked pasta and toss to coat with the creamy sauce. Stir in shredded cheese and Parmesan until melted and combined.
Final Adjustments
- Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serving
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
This recipe is adaptable; feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. It stores well and makes excellent leftovers.