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A high‑protein, calorie‑dense pasta dish that packs over 1,000 calories and 71 g of protein per serving. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for muscle‑building meal prep. Ground beef, creamy tomato sauce, and a splash of pasta water create a rich, silky coating for shell pasta.
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Everything you need to know about this recipe
Creamy garlic beef pasta blends classic Italian ingredients—tomato, garlic, and herbs—with the American love for hearty, protein‑rich meals. While traditional Italian pasta rarely uses large amounts of cream and beef together, post‑World‑War II Italian‑American cooks adapted recipes to include readily available beef and dairy, creating a comfort‑food staple for families seeking filling meals.
In northern Italy, especially Lombardy, you’ll find ragù alla Bolognese, a slow‑cooked meat sauce with minimal cream. Central regions like Tuscany favor simple tomato‑based sauces with minced beef. Southern Italy typically uses pork or sausage rather than beef, and cream is rare. The creamy garlic version is a modern, American‑style adaptation.
It is usually served hot as a main course, often accompanied by a simple green salad and crusty bread. Families may sprinkle grated Parmesan and fresh parsley on top, and the dish is commonly enjoyed for dinner or as a post‑workout meal because of its high protein content.
While not tied to a specific holiday, the dish is popular for family gatherings, weekend meals, and especially for athletes or bodybuilders who need a quick, calorie‑dense dinner after training. Its rich flavor also makes it a favorite for pot‑luck style events.
Traditional Italian beef pasta relies on high‑quality extra‑virgin olive oil, fresh garlic, ripe tomatoes, and a good cut of beef. In this recipe, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option, use low‑fat milk instead of double cream, or replace dried Italian herbs with fresh basil and oregano for a brighter flavor.
Pairs nicely with a crisp Caesar salad, roasted garlic broccoli, or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. For a complete meal, serve with garlic‑buttered breadsticks or a side of sautéed spinach.
Common errors include overcooking the pasta, not saving pasta water for the sauce, and burning the garlic. Also, adding the cream too early can cause it to separate; add it after the sauce has simmered and reduce the heat before stirring in the cream.
Double cream has a higher fat content, which creates a richer, silkier texture and prevents the sauce from curdling when combined with the acidic tomato sauce. Using lower‑fat milk can result in a thinner sauce that may split.
Yes. Cook the pasta and beef separately, store the sauce in an airtight container, and keep everything refrigerated. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of pasta water or milk to restore creaminess before serving.
The YouTube channel Unknown focuses on quick, high‑protein meals for fitness enthusiasts, offering step‑by‑step tutorials that emphasize calorie counts, macronutrient breakdowns, and efficient meal‑prep techniques.
Channel Unknown blends classic Italian‑American flavors with a fitness‑oriented perspective, prioritizing protein density and calorie control while still delivering authentic taste. Unlike many lifestyle channels, it provides detailed nutrition info and emphasizes speed for busy athletes.
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