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Creamy High-Protein Beef Pasta Recipe for the Best Hearty Meal

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A creamy, protein-packed beef pasta dish that is quick, easy, and perfect for hearty dinners. This recipe blends cottage cheese into the sauce for a velvety texture and adds smoked paprika for a subtle smoky warmth.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef (85% lean)
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) uncooked pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) cottage cheese (small-curd preferred)
  • 3/4 cup (180 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half (can substitute full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free)
  • 1 cup (100 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 grams) of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup (120 ml) of pasta water.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Add 1 finely chopped medium onion and 3 minced garlic cloves to the beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are translucent and fragrant, about 4 minutes.
  4. In a blender or food processor, combine 1 cup (240 ml) cottage cheese and 3/4 cup (180 ml) heavy cream. Blend until smooth and creamy, no lumps.
  5. Pour the blended cottage cheese and cream mixture into the skillet with beef and onions. Stir in 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  6. Stir in 1 cup (100 grams) shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan. Mix until melted and sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency.
  7. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat every piece in the creamy sauce. Cook together for 2-3 minutes to marry the flavors.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta as it will soften further when combined with the sauce. Blending the cottage cheese ensures a smooth, creamy sauce without lumps. When reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth or milk to revive the sauce. For gluten-free, substitute pasta with gluten-free or spiralized veggies. For dairy-free, use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef pasta, creamy pasta, high-protein meal, quick dinner, hearty meal, cottage cheese sauce, smoked paprika, easy pasta recipe

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