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High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe

5 from 11 reviews

This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a perfect quick weeknight dinner that combines lean ground beef with penne pasta in a creamy tomato-based sauce. Enhanced with Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese, it delivers a rich and satisfying meal packed with protein and flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz penne pasta

Beef and Sauce

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
  • 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil (for cooking)

Creamy Elements and Garnish

  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Brown the Ground Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
  4. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, low-sodium beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce slightly.
  5. Make it Creamy: Turn the heat to low and stir in the plain Greek yogurt and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the sauce is creamy and heated through, but do not let it boil to avoid curdling.
  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the beef sauce. Gently toss to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy beef mixture.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier without sacrificing protein content.
  • Greek yogurt adds creaminess and extra protein, making this dish nutritious and satisfying.
  • Be careful not to boil the sauce after adding the yogurt to prevent curdling.
  • Fresh herbs such as basil or parsley enhance flavor and provide a fresh finish.
  • This recipe can be made in advance and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.

Nutrition

Keywords: high protein pasta, creamy beef pasta, quick dinner recipe, weeknight meals, healthy beef pasta, Greek yogurt pasta sauce