High Protein Beef Pasta: A Delicious and Nutritious Meal Option

High Protein Beef Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings together the rich flavors of tender beef and the comforting texture of pasta. This dish has its roots in various cultures, where pasta serves as a staple, and beef adds a hearty element that transforms it into a satisfying feast. The combination of high-quality protein from the beef and the carbohydrates from the pasta makes it a favorite among fitness enthusiasts and busy families alike.

People love High Protein Beef Pasta for its incredible taste and versatility. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers on all fronts. The savory sauce, infused with aromatic herbs and spices, clings beautifully to the pasta, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. Plus, it’s a convenient option that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those who want a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Dive into this delicious recipe and discover why it has become a beloved choice for many!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 8 oz whole wheat pasta (penne or fusilli)
• 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth (low sodium)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup spinach, fresh or frozen
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2. Add the whole wheat pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
3. Once cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

Cooking the Beef

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Add the lean ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat if necessary.
5. Season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.

Building the Sauce

1. Once the beef is browned and seasoned, add the can of diced tomatoes (with juices) and the tomato paste to the skillet. Stir to combine.
2. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Add the spinach to the sauce, stirring until it wilts (if using fresh) or heats through (if using frozen). This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

1. Once the sauce is ready, add the drained pasta to the skillet with the beef sauce.
2. Gently toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring that all the noodles are well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
3. Stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well to incorporate it into the dish.

Serving the Dish

1. Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a minute to cool slightly.
2. Serve the high protein beef pasta in bowls, garnishing each serving with the remaining Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
3. Enjoy your hearty and nutritious meal, packed with protein and flavor!

Storage and Reheating

1. If you have leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
2. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
3. To reheat, place the desired amount in a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.

Nutrition Information

This high protein beef pasta dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 4 servings):

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Conclusion:

In summary, this High Protein Beef Pasta recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious meal while boosting their protein intake. The combination of tender beef, hearty pasta, and a rich sauce not only satisfies your taste buds but also fuels your body with essential nutrients. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a busy professional, or simply someone who loves a good pasta dish, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your High Protein Beef Pasta with a fresh side salad or some steamed vegetables to add a pop of color and extra nutrients to your meal. You can also experiment with variations by swapping out the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or adding in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added flavor and nutrition. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own! Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you add to the dish. Your feedback and variations can inspire others in the community to enjoy this High Protein Beef Pasta as much as you do. Happy cooking! Print

High Protein Beef Pasta: A Delicious and Nutritious Meal Option
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• Author: Maria
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
Print Recipe
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Description
This High Protein Beef Pasta features whole wheat pasta tossed with lean ground beef, fresh spinach, and a flavorful tomato sauce, creating a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
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Ingredients
Scale 1x2x3x
• 8 oz whole wheat pasta (penne or fusilli)
• 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth (low sodium)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup spinach, fresh or frozen
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2. Add the whole wheat pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
3. Once cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
4. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
5. Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
6. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
7. Add the lean ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
8. Season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.
9. Once the beef is browned and seasoned, add the can of diced tomatoes (with juices) and the tomato paste to the skillet. Stir to combine.
10. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
11. Add the spinach to the sauce, stirring until it wilts (if using fresh) or heats through (if using frozen). This should take about 2-3 minutes.
12. Once the sauce is ready, add the drained pasta to the skillet with the beef sauce.
13. Gently toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring that all the noodles are well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
14. Stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well to incorporate it into the dish.
15. Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a minute to cool slightly.
16. Serve the high protein beef pasta in bowls, garnishing each serving with the remaining Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
17. Enjoy your hearty and nutritious meal, packed with protein and flavor!
18. If you have leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
19. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
20. To reheat, place the desired amount in a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.
Notes
• Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
• For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes