This Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that satisfies your cravings and supports your gains. Rich, velvety, and meaty, this dish comes together quickly with pantry staples and leaves you with a hearty bowl of pasta smothered in a creamy, protein-packed sauce. It’s the kind of meal you’ll want to curl up with after a long day.


What makes this recipe shine is its balance of indulgence and nourishment. The savory beef, paired with a lush, cheesy sauce, coats every bite of penne pasta for a deeply satisfying experience. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping, or just need a quick high-protein dinner, this one’s a crowd-pleaser.
What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?
Penne is ideal for this recipe because its ridges hold onto the creamy sauce, but rigatoni or rotini are great alternatives too. Just be sure to use a pasta shape that captures all that luscious beefy goodness.
Ingredients for the Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta
- Ground Beef – The hero of this dish. Choose 90% lean or higher for a protein-packed bite with less grease.
- Pasta – Penne or any short-cut pasta works well. You want something that can hold the sauce.
- Cream Cheese – Adds richness and makes the sauce irresistibly smooth.
- Beef Broth – Infuses the sauce with deep flavor and ties the meat and cream together.
- Garlic – Fresh minced garlic enhances the flavor profile with a warm aromatic kick.
- Heavy Cream – For that luxurious, velvety sauce texture.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds umami depth and sharpness to balance the cream.
- Salt and Pepper – Simple seasoning to bring everything together.
- Fresh Parsley (optional) – For garnish and a pop of color.
How To Make the Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Break it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
Step 2: Build the Flavor
Add minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Base
Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and combined. Let it simmer for 5-6 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it melt into the sauce.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and add it directly into the skillet. Toss until well-coated with the sauce.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!

Storing and Reheating Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life. It reheats well on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What to Serve With Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta?
Garlic Bread
Classic and perfect for mopping up that extra sauce.
Roasted Broccoli
A healthy, crispy side that balances the richness.
Caesar Salad
Crunchy and refreshing to cut through the creamy pasta.
Sautéed Green Beans
Quick and simple with a touch of garlic.
Italian Chopped Salad
With olives, pepperoncini, and salami for zing.
Grilled Asparagus
Earthy, tender spears that pair nicely.
Caprese Skewers
A no-cook option with tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella.
Want More Pasta Ideas?
If you can’t get enough creamy pasta comfort, don’t miss these other SavorQueen hits:
- Creamy Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta for an ultra-cheesy twist.
- Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet that sneaks in greens without skimping on flavor.
- Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan when you want buttery indulgence.
- Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for sweet-meets-savory magic.
- Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet when you’re craving bold, smoky flavor.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.
Tried it with a twist? Maybe some crushed red pepper or spinach folded in? I’d love to hear your take—drop your thoughts in the comments!
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite dish might be waiting there.
Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
If you’re looking for an easy dinner idea that’s rich in flavor and packed with protein, this Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta is your next go-to! With hearty ground beef, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it hits the sweet spot between comfort food and muscle-fueling goodness. Whether it’s a quick dinner or meal prep for the week, this easy recipe will be on repeat in your kitchen. Great for those seeking dinner ideas, quick meals, or protein-rich food ideas for the whole family.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
10 ounces penne pasta
4 ounces cream cheese
1 cup beef broth
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in beef broth and heavy cream. Add the cream cheese and let it melt into the sauce. Simmer for 5–6 minutes.
4. Add Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and add to the skillet.
6. Toss the pasta in the creamy beef sauce until evenly coated.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese.
Add spinach or mushrooms to sneak in extra nutrients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: high protein dinner, creamy beef pasta, easy dinner, food ideas, pasta recipe, comfort food
