Are you searching for a meal that’s both fulfilling and nutritionally powerful? Look no further than this High Protein Beef Pasta. Combining rich flavors with robust health benefits, it’s the perfect dish for anyone seeking a hearty, protein-packed meal. Ideal for post-workout recovery or a satisfying dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole-wheat or chickpea pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1-2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Equipments
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
- Chopping board
- Chef’s knife
How to Make High Protein Beef Pasta – Step By Step
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling water in a large pot to cook the pasta. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add a pinch of salt and the pasta. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which typically takes about 7-9 minutes. Drain the pasta using a colander and set it aside. This base is key to a great pasta dish, absorbing flavors while maintaining a firm texture.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. This step creates a flavor foundation that’s crucial for deepening the taste of the overall dish.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the lean ground beef to the skillet with the aromatics. Break up the beef with a wooden spoon, cooking until it is browned and no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat, if necessary, to keep the dish lean. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste. This ensures that your beef is flavorful and complements the pasta beautifully.
Step 4: Mix in Vegetables
Stir in chopped red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, and spinach to the beef mixture in your skillet. Allow the mixture to cook until the vegetables are tender and the spinach is wilted, around 5 minutes. The addition of vegetables not only enhances the nutritional value but also contributes to the vivid color and texture of the dish.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to combine with the beef and vegetable mixture. Make sure every piece of pasta is coated with the savory sauce. Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted throughout. This final touch adds a creamy, salty richness that balances the flavors perfectly.
How to Serve High Protein Beef Pasta
Serve your High Protein Beef Pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped basil leaves for an added burst of flavor. Pair it with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. This dish is a fantastic centerpiece for family dinners or casual get-togethers, feeding 4-6 people as a main entrée.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For optimal flavor, allow the beef to brown before adding the seasoning, which helps develop a deeper flavor. Don’t rush the vegetable cooking process; tender vegetables contribute to the overall texture and flavor harmony. Remember to adjust the seasoning to your preference.
Pumped Up Protein: A Meaty Marvel
If you’re seeking to enhance the protein content, consider swapping in quinoa pasta or adding more lean protein with turkey or chicken mince. Tofu or lentils are excellent vegetarian options that maintain the protein levels while catering to different dietary needs.
Make it Low Carb: Pasta-Free Delights
For a low-carb version, substitute the whole-wheat pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. These options ensure you continue to enjoy your meal’s robust flavors while keeping it light on carbohydrates. Roasting the squash beforehand can enrich the dish with another layer of taste.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to maintain moisture. This meal also freezes well; divide it into individual serving sizes in airtight containers, freezing for up to a month.
FAQs
- Can I make this dish gluten-free? Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta or pasta substitutes like zucchini noodles.
- What other vegetables can I include? Feel free to add mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli for more nutrition and color.
- Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely, replace the beef with proteins like tofu or tempeh.
- How can I increase the spiciness? Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño during the sautéing process for added heat.
- Any sauces that go well with this recipe? A light pesto or sun-dried tomato cream sauce can complement the beef nicely.
Relish Every Bite – A Finale Invitation
This High Protein Beef Pasta is a fusion of taste and health. Enjoy crafting this dish and tweaking it to your preference. If you have any variations or suggestions, do share your experience in the comments! And if you enjoyed it, don’t forget to share with fellow food lovers.
High Protein Beef Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- whole-wheat or chickpea pasta
- lean ground beef
- olive oil
- onion
- garlic
- red bell pepper
- Italian seasoning
- salt and pepper
- spinach
- diced tomatoes
- grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
Steps
- Begin by boiling water in a large pot to cook the pasta. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add a pinch of salt and the pasta. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until onions are translucent and garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the lean ground beef to the skillet with the aromatics. Break up the beef with a wooden spoon, cooking until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat, if necessary. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.
- Stir in chopped red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, and spinach to the beef mixture. Allow the vegetables to cook until tender and spinach is wilted, about 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to combine with the beef and vegetable mixture. Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted throughout.