High-Protein Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe: A One-Pot Wonder

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I’m excited to share an upgraded version of my one-pot creamy beef and shells dish. By swapping traditional pasta for protein-packed Banza shells and using blended cottage cheese in place of cream, this recipe transforms a classic comfort food into a high-protein, nutrient-dense meal. This High-Protein Pasta Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and anyone looking to add more protein to their diet without sacrificing flavor.

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Why This Recipe Stands Out

This recipe is all about balance:

• Protein Boost: Banza pasta contains double the protein and three times more fiber compared to traditional pasta, making every bite satisfying and wholesome.
• Creamy Texture Without the Guilt: Blended cottage cheese replaces heavy cream, reducing fat while increasing protein.
• Layered Flavors: With a delicious blend of aromatics, spices, and seared beef, the dish delivers complexity in every spoonful.

The recipe was born from a desire to reimagine a beloved classic. I developed this recipe myself to prove that healthy eating doesn’t have to mean bland or boring food.

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Ingredients

For a one-pot meal that serves about 4 to 6 people, gather the following ingredients:

• Pasta & Protein
  • 1 lb Banza shells (or your favorite high-protein pasta)
  • 1 lb grass-fed ground beef
• Aromatic Base
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 6-8 cloves garlic, minced (adjust to taste)
• Seasonings & Spices
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp Calabrian chilies (or red pepper flakes), to taste
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2-3 tbsp tomato paste
• Creamy Sauce Elements
  • 1.5 – 2 cups cottage cheese (depending on desired creaminess)
  • 3-4 tbsp milk
  • Up to 1 cup beef broth (to adjust thickness)
• Final Touches
  • 4 oz freshly shredded cheddar cheese
  • Fresh chives, for garnish
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)

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Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare Your High-Protein Pasta

Begin by cooking 1 lb of Banza shells according to the package instructions. These shells provide a significant protein boost and extra fiber, aligning with the goals of a balanced High-Protein Pasta Recipe. Set them aside once they reach the perfect al dente texture.

2. Saute the Aromatics

Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large, deep pan or skillet over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Add in Calabrian chilies (or red pepper flakes) to taste, ensuring the aromatics are well-seasoned from the start.

3. Brown the Grass-Fed Ground Beef

Add 1 lb of grass-fed ground beef to the pan. Allow it to develop a nice crust before breaking it up with a wooden spoon. This ensures you build flavor through proper caramelization. Once the beef is browned, mix in 2-3 tbsp of tomato paste to further enrich the taste and continue cooking until slightly caramelized.

4. Incorporate Garlic and Protein Enhancer

Stir in the minced garlic, letting the flavors meld for about one minute. Next, blend your 1.5 to 2 cups of cottage cheese until smooth. Pour the blended cottage cheese into the pan, which acts as the creamy base of your sauce. Add 3-4 tbsp of milk to achieve the desired consistency.

5. Create the Creamy Sauce

To adjust the thickness of your sauce, slowly add up to 1 cup of beef broth. Allow the sauce to simmer so that all the flavors unite. This step is essential for balancing the robust beef flavors with the creaminess provided by the cottage cheese mixture.

6. Final Assembly

Gently fold in the pre-cooked Banza shells, ensuring that they are evenly coated with the rich sauce. Then, mix in 4 oz of freshly shredded cheddar cheese, which will melt and add a delicious, gooey finish to the dish. Taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary.

7. Garnish and Serve

Once everything is perfectly combined, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped chives and serve immediately. Enjoy your high-protein, one-pot meal that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious!

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Pro Tips & Variations

• Spice It Up: Feel free to increase the amount of Calabrian chilies or red pepper flakes if you enjoy a spicier kick.
• Creaminess Control: Adjust the milk and beef broth quantities to hit your ideal consistency; a thicker sauce works wonderfully with extra cheddar cheese.
• Vegetable Boost: Add extra vegetables like spinach or diced bell peppers during the sautéing stage to increase the dish’s nutritional profile.

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Behind the Recipe

As part of my one-pan meal series, this dish represents innovation in classic recipes while meeting modern nutritional goals. The use of high-protein ingredients not only elevates the dish but also supports a healthier lifestyle. I originally designed this recipe to prove that high-protein meals can be both indulgent and nutritious without needing extra heavy creams or long cooking times.

For those looking for inspiration in the kitchen, this recipe is a fantastic option—providing a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and bold flavors in a single, convenient dish.

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In Summary

This High-Protein Creamy Beef and Shells recipe stands out as a versatile, delicious, and health-conscious twist on a traditional one-pot meal. With its robust flavor, creamy texture, and impressive nutritional benefits, it’s an ideal candidate for anyone seeking a High-Protein Pasta Recipe that doesn’t compromise on taste or convenience. Enjoy this meal any night of the week, and feel free to experiment with additional variations to suit your dietary needs.

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Note: This recipe was created entirely by me. No external credits are given, as every detail reflects my personal culinary innovation.

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