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High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe

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4 from 75 reviews

  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a hearty and satisfying dish that combines lean ground beef with a creamy tomato-based sauce made rich with light cream cheese and sour cream. Featuring chickpea flour pasta for an extra protein boost, this recipe is perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor or creaminess. Fresh basil adds a fragrant finish that elevates this comforting pasta meal.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 10 oz chickpea flour pasta (or any high-protein pasta)

Sauce and Beef Mixture

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 1 medium green bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 4 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup tomato sauce (passata)
  • 1/2 cup light cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup light sour cream
  • 6-8 fresh basil leaves

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking the chickpea flour pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve 1-2 cups of the pasta water once cooked, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and green bell pepper, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Brown the Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Then, add crushed garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute to incorporate the spices.
  4. Add Tomato Base: Stir in the tomato paste and tomato sauce (passata). Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly.
  5. Create Creamy Sauce: Mix in the light cream cheese and light sour cream, stirring until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy. Heat just until warmed through but do not boil to maintain the creaminess.
  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly in the creamy beef sauce so every strand is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
  7. Finish and Serve: Tear the fresh basil leaves and sprinkle over the pasta. Adjust the seasoning if necessary with additional salt or pepper. Serve hot immediately for the best taste and texture.

Notes

  • Using chickpea flour pasta boosts the protein content and adds fiber compared to traditional pasta.
  • Reserving pasta water is crucial for adjusting sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
  • Light cream cheese and sour cream keep the sauce creamy but lighter in fat content.
  • Fresh basil adds a bright herbal aroma that complements the rich beef sauce beautifully.
  • For a spicier version, consider adding red chili flakes with the spices.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Find it online: https://tastywhisper.com/high-protein-creamy-beef-pasta-recipe/