Creamy Beef Pasta

When You Need a Quick and Satisfying Dinner

If you’re like me, busy weeknights can often feel overwhelming when finding the time to prepare a nutritious meal. The High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a lifesaver in those moments. This dish combines the hearty goodness of lean ground beef and creamy Greek yogurt, making it rich in protein while still being incredibly quick to whip up. It’s perfect for families on the go or anyone looking to satisfy their pasta cravings without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the one-skillet method means fewer dishes to clean!

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes this creamy beef pasta dish so special is its balance of convenience and nutrition. We all crave comfort food at the end of a hectic day, and this recipe delivers just that—an indulgent taste without sacrificing your health goals. Packed with lean protein from the ground beef and the creamy goodness of Greek yogurt, this meal is kid-approved and budget-friendly.

“Easily one of my family’s favorite weeknight dinners! My kids devour it, and it keeps me on track with my meal prep for the week.” — A satisfied home cook

Whether you’re cooking for a family of four or just treating yourself to a comforting bowl of pasta, this recipe deserves a spot on your table. It’s simple enough for those who dislike cooking but delicious enough to impress your guests.

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Let’s talk about how easy this recipe is. You’ll boil pasta, sauté a few ingredients, and combine them into one glorious dish. Sounds simple, right? It’s a quick and efficient process that minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor. With just a few steps, you’ll have a creamy, savory dinner ready to serve!

What You’ll Need

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 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
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil (for cooking)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Feel free to switch out the pasta type or use turkey or chicken as an alternative to beef. You can also opt for reduced-fat cheese if you’re watching your fat intake.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant.
4. Stir in the ground beef, cooking until browned and cooked through.
5. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and simmer for a few minutes.
6. Incorporate the cooked pasta into the beef mixture, tossing until well combined.
7. Serve the creamy beef pasta garnished with fresh basil or parsley.

Serving Ideas

This dish is versatile and pairable! For a balanced meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or some steamed broccoli. Garlic bread or a side of crusty rolls also complements the creamy texture beautifully. Want to elevate the dish? Sprinkle some extra cheese or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.

Best Way to Store High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe for Quick Weeknight Dinners

Leftover creamy beef pasta can be easily stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you want to save it for later, you can freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to restore creaminess.

Expert Advice

• Cook Smart: Always have some essential ingredients like ground beef and pasta on hand. They can save you from a meal prep crisis!
• Creamy Alternatives: You can swap Greek yogurt for cottage cheese or low-fat sour cream if you prefer a different flavor profile.
• Flavor Boost: Consider adding some spinach or kale to the skillet for extra nutrients and color.

Creative Twists

This recipe is a great base for your culinary creativity. Try adding some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor or switch up the protein with ground turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian version. You can also sprinkle in some Italian sausage for a spicier kick, or if you’re feeling adventurous, toss in a splash of red wine for depth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does this dish take to prepare?

This high-protein creamy beef pasta takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Can I substitute the Greek yogurt?

Yes, you can use low-fat sour cream or cream cheese if you prefer a different taste or texture.

Is it safe to freeze this dish?

Absolutely! Just be sure to cool the pasta completely before freezing it in an airtight container. Reheat thoroughly before serving for the best taste.

With its quick prep and incredible flavor, this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Did you try it out? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

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• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A quick and satisfying creamy beef pasta dish that’s rich in protein and perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 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
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil (for cooking)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant.
4. Stir in the ground beef, cooking until browned and cooked through.
5. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and simmer for a few minutes.
6. Incorporate the cooked pasta into the beef mixture, tossing until well combined.
7. Serve the creamy beef pasta garnished with fresh basil or parsley.

Notes

For a balanced meal, serve alongside a fresh garden salad or steamed broccoli. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: high protein pasta, creamy beef dish, quick weeknight dinner