High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
A rich and creamy pasta dish with lean ground beef and spinach, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Beef
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta Can be substituted with whole grain or gluten-free options.
- 1 lb lean ground beef For a leaner alternative, consider using turkey.
Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream Can be replaced with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Alternative cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella can be used.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach Can swap with other leafy greens like kale or arugula.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Begin by cooking the fettuccine in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, ensuring to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water.
Preparing the Beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef, breaking it into small pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until fully browned.
- Push the cooked beef to one side. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about one minute until fragrant.
Making the Sauce
- Pour in the heavy cream and gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth.
- Toss in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt into the sauce while scraping any flavorful bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Combining Everything
- Combine the cooked fettuccine with the creamy beef mixture, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
To enhance flavor, consider browning the beef with chopped onions or adding red pepper flakes for heat. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan and serve with a side salad or garlic bread.