If you’re craving a comforting, delicious, and protein-packed meal that comes together without any fuss, this Easy High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner. Picture tender pasta made from chickpea flour, enveloped in a luscious, creamy beef sauce bursting with fresh herbs, garlic, and a touch of spice. It’s a perfect balance of rich flavors and satisfying textures that makes it a reliable weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish any day. Once you try this recipe, it’s going to become one of those go-to meals you want to share with everyone you know.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view of a large light gray pan with pink handles, filled with thick red tomato sauce mixed with ground meat and small bits of onion. In the center lies a dollop of soft, white cheese with a creamy texture resting on top of the sauce. The pan is placed on a black stove, with a wooden cutting board and a white marbled surface visible around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Easy High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that pack a punch. Each item is carefully chosen to bring a unique flavor, texture, or nutritional boost that transforms simple pantry staples into a creamy, hearty masterpiece.

Chickpea flour pasta: A high-protein alternative to regular pasta that adds a subtle nuttiness and satisfies your hunger longer.
Olive oil: Adds a silky richness and helps soften the vegetables perfectly.
Medium onion (finely diced): Provides a gentle sweetness and depth to the savory base of the sauce.
Medium green bell pepper (finely diced): Brings a bright, slightly sweet crunch and vibrant color.
Lean ground beef: The star protein that creates the hearty heart and soul of this creamy pasta dish.
Garlic cloves (crushed): Infuses every bite with aromatic warmth that truly elevates the sauce.
Dried oregano: A classic herb that adds earthiness and a hint of Mediterranean flair.
Paprika: Provides a subtle smoky note and beautiful color.
Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the dish.
Ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat and complexity.
Tomato paste: Concentrated tomato richness that deepens the sauce.
Tomato sauce (passata): Provides the silky tomato base that ties everything together smoothly.
Light cream cheese: Brings creaminess without overwhelming heaviness, making the sauce luscious.
Light sour cream: Adds that irresistible tang and balance for the perfect creamy texture.
Fresh basil leaves: Scatter in just before serving for a fresh, herbaceous finish that brightens the dish beautifully.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Easy High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the pasta perfectly

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the chickpea flour pasta according to the package instructions. Just remember to reserve 1 to 2 cups of that starchy pasta water before draining to help loosen the sauce later if needed. This pasta cooks quickly and holds its shape wonderfully in the creamy beef sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the vegetables

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in your finely diced onion and green bell pepper and cook them gently for 3 to 4 minutes. The goal here is to soften the veggies to release their natural sweetness, which creates an irresistible flavor foundation for the sauce.

Step 3: Brown the beef and infuse spices

Next, add the lean ground beef to the skillet and break it apart as it browns evenly. Once it’s beautifully caramelized, stir in the crushed garlic along with dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. These spices marry beautifully with the beef, lending the sauce depth and a touch of warmth.

Step 4: Simmer with tomato goodness

Mix in the tomato paste and tomato sauce, then let everything gently simmer for about five minutes. This step allows the flavors to develop into a rich, savory base that’s perfectly balanced in acidity and sweetness.

Step 5: Create the creamy sauce

Time for the magic touch—stir in the light cream cheese and sour cream until you achieve a smooth, creamy texture that coats the beef and vegetables like a dream. Heat it through just enough until everything is piping hot, but avoid boiling to keep the creaminess silky.

Step 6: Combine pasta and sauce

Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet and toss it in the luscious beef sauce, making sure every strand is well coated. If the sauce feels too thick, a splash of your reserved pasta water will loosen it to the perfect consistency—smooth, creamy, and ready to serve.

Step 7: Finish with fresh basil

Lastly, tear fresh basil leaves over the pasta for a beautiful burst of aromatic freshness. Give the dish a final seasoning check, then serve hot and savor the joyful harmony of creamy, protein-packed flavors.

How to Serve Easy High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe

A top view of a large light gray skillet with two pink handles filled with creamy tomato pasta. The pasta is penne, covered well with a thick, smooth orange-red sauce with bits of ground meat and small green vegetable pieces mixed in. Fresh green basil leaves are placed in the center on top of the pasta. The skillet is placed on a black stove surface with a white marbled texture visible in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnish with extra torn basil leaves or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan if you like a salty, umami kick. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil over the top adds a lovely sheen and richness that makes each bite shine.

Side Dishes

This creamy beef pasta is so rich and satisfying on its own, but consider pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to add balance and freshness to the plate. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread also complements the sauce wonderfully and helps soak up every last bit.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve this pasta in wide bowls to showcase the creamy texture and colorful veggies. You can also layer it in a baking dish, top with shredded cheese, then bake briefly for a bubbly, golden crust. It’s a comforting twist that impresses everyone at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers from your Easy High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making your next meal just as satisfying. Consume within 2 to 3 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

This pasta freezes well but is best portioned into individual servings before freezing. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and label them for up to 2 months of storage. To prevent the creamy sauce from separating, allow it to cool fully before freezing.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess as needed. Microwaving works, too—just heat in short bursts and stir in between to avoid uneven heating or curdling the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of chickpea flour pasta?

Absolutely! While chickpea flour pasta adds extra protein and a lovely nutty flavor, you can substitute with any pasta you prefer. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times and enjoy the creamy beef sauce just the same.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this Easy High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe is fantastic for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge, reheats easily, and maintains its creamy texture, making your lunches or dinners both nutritious and convenient.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils. The creamy sauce and spices will still provide plenty of savory depth, making this dish just as delightful without meat.

What can I use instead of cream cheese and sour cream?

If you prefer a dairy-free or lighter option, try using coconut cream or cashew cream as substitutes. They’ll keep that creamy feel while adding a subtle, rich flavor that pairs nicely with the tomato and beef.

How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Feel free to toss in extras like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini when cooking the onion and bell pepper. These veggies blend effortlessly into the sauce and boost the nutrients, making this recipe even more wholesome.

Final Thoughts

This Easy High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe brings together wholesome ingredients in a way that’s not only nourishing but truly comforting and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, it’s a surefire recipe to warm hearts and hunger. Go ahead and make this dish your next kitchen adventure—you won’t regret it!