Name: High‑Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 10 oz (300 g) high‑protein pasta (such as chickpea pasta); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, finely diced; 1 medium green bell pepper, finely diced; 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef; 4 garlic cloves, crushed; 1 tbsp dried oregano; 1 tsp paprika; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp ground black pepper; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 cup (250 g) tomato sauce or passata; ½ cup (125 g) light cream cheese; ½ cup (125 g) light sour cream; 6–8 fresh basil leaves, torn

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Short Description

A hearty and satisfying pasta dish made with high-protein chickpea noodles, lean ground beef, savory tomato sauce, and creamy cheese—perfect for a balanced, flavorful meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

High in Protein: Chickpea pasta, beef, and dairy combine for a protein-packed comfort meal.
Creamy Yet Light: The blend of light cream cheese and sour cream creates richness without heaviness.
Flavorful & Balanced: Aromatics and spices enrich the sauce, while veggies add freshness and texture.
One-Pot-Style Finish: Easy to toss and serve straight from the skillet.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll Find The Full List Of Ingredients And Measurements In The Recipe Card Below.)

10 oz (300 g) high-protein pasta (such as chickpea pasta)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely diced
1 medium green bell pepper, finely diced
1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
4 garlic cloves, crushed
1 tbsp dried oregano
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp ground black pepper
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup (250 g) tomato sauce or passata
½ cup (125 g) light cream cheese
½ cup (125 g) light sour cream
6–8 fresh basil leaves, torn

Directions

Cook Pasta
Prepare pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Veggies
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
Brown the Beef
Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it up as it cooks through. Stir in garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Build the Sauce
Mix in tomato paste and tomato sauce. Let simmer for about 5 minutes to meld flavors.
Add the Creamy Elements
Stir in cream cheese and sour cream until the sauce is smooth and rich.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring every strand is coated.
Garnish and Serve
Finish with torn basil leaves for freshness. Serve immediately while warm.

Servings & Timing

Servings: 3–4
Prep Time: ~10 minutes
Cook Time: ~20 minutes
Total Time: ~30 minutes

Variations

Vegetable Boost: Toss in spinach, diced zucchini, or baby kale just before serving.
Herb Substitution: Add chopped rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
Spice It Up: Include red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Cheese Alternatives: Use light ricotta or Greek yogurt for a different flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Gently warm on low heat in a skillet, stirring in a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I Use Regular Pasta Instead of Chickpea Pasta?

Yes—feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta, like whole wheat or gluten-free varieties.

Is This Recipe Freezable?

Absolutely—cool completely, then freeze in individual portions. Reheat from frozen over low heat until warmed through.

Can I Make It Vegetarian?

Yes—swap ground beef for cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles.

Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?

Yes—prepare the sauce now, stir in cream cheese and sour cream when reheating, then add pasta.

How Do I Prevent Sauce From Separating When Reheating?

Reheat over low to medium heat and stir gently; adding a little liquid helps keep it smooth.

Conclusion

This High‑Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a well-balanced meal that combines hearty protein sources, creamy textures, and fresh flavors. Effortlessly satisfying and customizable, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting but still wholesome. Warm up with this delicious, protein-packed dish that’s sure to become a staple.