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- 8 oz whole wheat pasta - 1 lb lean ground beef - 1 cup cottage cheese - 1 cup spinach, chopped - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish Whole wheat pasta gives you fiber and energy. It helps you feel full. Lean ground beef is packed with protein. It builds and repairs muscles. Cottage cheese is great for calcium and protein. It also adds creaminess to the dish. Spinach is loaded with vitamins and minerals. It helps your body stay strong. Cherry tomatoes bring flavor and antioxidants. Garlic adds taste and can boost your immune system. Olive oil is healthy fat. It can promote heart health. Italian seasoning offers herbs that add rich flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. For a lower-fat choice, try ground turkey or chicken. If you're lactose intolerant, swap cottage cheese for a plant-based option. You can use silken tofu or a dairy-free yogurt. For more veggies, add bell peppers or zucchini. They add crunch and nutrients. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Cook Pasta: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add the whole wheat pasta. Cook it until it is al dente, as shown on the package. Drain the pasta and set it aside. 2. Prepare Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Pour in the olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until you smell its nice aroma. 3. Brown the Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the hot skillet. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Keep cooking until the beef is brown and no pink is left, about 5 to 7 minutes. If there's extra fat, drain it out. 4. Add Tomatoes and Spinach: Next, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped spinach. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Cook this mix for another 3 to 5 minutes. The spinach should wilt, and the tomatoes will soften. 5. Combine with Pasta: Now, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Mix everything well, so the pasta gets all the flavors. 6. Incorporate Cottage Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat. Gently fold in the cottage cheese. Make sure everything is coated and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. 7. Serve: Finally, divide the beef pasta onto plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. This adds color and a nice flavor. - Always use a large pot with plenty of water. This helps the pasta cook evenly. - Add salt to the boiling water. It adds great flavor to the pasta. - Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks. This keeps it from sticking together. - Test the pasta a minute before the time is up. It should be firm but not hard. - Use a meat thermometer to check the beef. It should reach 160°F for safety. - Break up the meat while it cooks. This helps it cook evenly. - Don't rush the browning. Let it cook until it’s nicely browned. This adds flavor. - If you have lean meat, drain any fat after browning to keep it healthy. To keep your beef pasta fresh, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to store it longer, freeze it. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Just remember to label them with the date. You can easily adjust this recipe to fit your needs. If you're lactose intolerant, swap cottage cheese for a dairy-free alternative. For a vegetarian option, use lentils or mushrooms instead of beef. You can also use gluten-free pasta for those with gluten sensitivities. Always start with quality ingredients. Fresh herbs boost flavor. Try adding a splash of lemon juice before serving for brightness. If you want a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Sautéing garlic until golden adds a deep, rich flavor. Make sure to stir often to prevent burning. Pro Tips Use High-Quality Beef: Opt for grass-fed or organic lean ground beef for better flavor and nutritional benefits. Add More Veggies: Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients and color. Experiment with Cheese: Try using ricotta or Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese for a different texture and taste. Save Pasta Water: Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining; it can help adjust the sauce consistency later if needed. {{image_2}} You can change your pasta for this dish. Whole wheat pasta adds fiber and taste. You might try gluten-free pasta for a light option. If you want a fun twist, use spiral pasta or penne. Each type offers a unique bite and texture. While lean ground beef is tasty, you can switch proteins. Ground turkey or chicken provides a lighter flavor. For a plant-based option, use lentils or chickpeas. These swaps give you different tastes and keep the protein high. Adding new herbs and spices can change your dish. Try fresh oregano or thyme for a bold kick. You can also mix in bell peppers or zucchini for more veggies. These additions not only boost flavor but also add color and nutrients to your plate. To keep your beef pasta fresh, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This prevents moisture loss and keeps flavors intact. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Label the container with the date. This way, you will know when to eat it. If you want to freeze your beef pasta, follow these steps. Cool it completely before packing. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. Make sure to label with the date and contents. When reheating, use a microwave or stovetop. If using the microwave, add a splash of water. This keeps the pasta moist. Stir halfway through to heat evenly. If using the stovetop, warm it on low heat. Stir often and add a bit of olive oil if needed. Enjoy your delicious beef pasta like it’s fresh! You can use ricotta cheese as a substitute for cottage cheese. It has a creamy texture. Greek yogurt is another option. It adds protein and a tangy taste. Both will mix well in your beef pasta dish. Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. You can cook it in advance and store it. Divide the pasta into airtight containers. It stays fresh for up to four days in the fridge. Reheat it in the microwave when you are ready to eat. Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta instead of whole wheat pasta. Many brands offer tasty options made from rice or quinoa. Just be sure to check the label for gluten-free certification. To boost protein, add canned beans like chickpeas or black beans. They blend well with the beef and pasta. You can also mix in some diced chicken breast or turkey. Using higher-protein pasta is another great option. This will keep your meal filling and nutritious. This blog covered key ingredients and their benefits for your dish. You learned how to cook pasta and beef just right, plus tips on storing leftovers. I shared ways to adapt the recipe for dietary needs and preferences. Explore alternatives for each ingredient to make it yours. Remember, cooking can be fun and creative. Use these steps and tips to make a meal that satisfies. Enjoy experimenting and enjoy your delicious results!

High Protein Beef Pasta

A nutritious and hearty pasta dish packed with protein from lean beef and cottage cheese.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz whole wheat pasta
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for garnish fresh basil leaves

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add the lean ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  • Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped spinach, and Italian seasoning into the skillet with the beef. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.
  • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix well to combine.
  • Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the cottage cheese until everything is well coated and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Divide the beef pasta among plates and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a touch of color and flavor.

Notes

Feel free to add more vegetables or adjust seasoning to taste.
Keyword beef, healthy, high protein, pasta