Name: High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 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; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish; Olive oil (for cooking)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a quick and nourishing weeknight dinner, let me share with you one of my absolute favorites: High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta. I stumbled upon this recipe during a particularly busy week, yearning for something hearty yet uncomplicated. This dish combines lean ground beef, creamy Greek yogurt, and tangy diced tomatoes with pasta, creating a comforting meal that’s not just delicious but also packed with protein. It’s perfect for busy evenings when your family is hungry but time is short.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This creamy beef pasta dish stands out for several reasons. First of all, it’s incredibly quick to whip up—ideal for those weeknights when you feel like dinner is sneaking up on you. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it easy to add to your regular meal rotation without breaking the bank. The use of lean ground beef and Greek yogurt means you can enjoy a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet is health-conscious. Kids absolutely love it, so it’s sure to earn a place on your family’s dinner table.

"This dish was a hit with my two picky eaters! The creamy sauce is so rich, and I love that it’s packed with protein.” – Happy Home Cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Preparing this incredible dish is not only a breeze, but also straightforward. Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect: you’ll start by cooking the pasta, then sautéing onions and garlic, before adding the beef and letting everything simmer together in a creamy sauce. After all that, just toss in the pasta, and your meal is ready to serve!

Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta:

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
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Olive oil (for cooking)

Feel free to substitute with whole wheat pasta for a healthier option or use ground turkey for an even leaner protein source.

Cooking Steps

Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once al dente, drain the pasta and set it aside.
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened.
Toss in the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), low-sodium beef broth, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, and toss until everything is well combined and coated in the creamy sauce.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for that extra touch of flavor.

Tips for Serving

This creamy beef pasta is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the meal with a few creative serving ideas. A side salad with fresh vegetables can add a nice crunch, while some garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for mopping up that savory sauce. You might also want to pair it with a glass of red wine for a more relaxed dinner vibe.

Storage Tips

Leftovers? No problem! Store any remaining creamy beef pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If you plan to freeze it, do so without the fresh herbs, and use within three months for the best quality. Remember to let it properly cool before freezing to ensure safe food handling.

Pro Chef Tips

To enhance flavor, consider browning the meat a little longer for a deeper color and taste. You can also swap in different types of cheese, like mozzarella or Gruyère, for a meltier texture. If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes along with the Italian seasoning.

Different Ways to Make It

Feeling adventurous? Try adding different vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the mix for a more colorful and nutritious dish. You could also experiment with spices such as smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness or switch out Greek yogurt for cream for an even richer sauce.

Common Questions

Q: What’s the prep time for this creamy beef pasta recipe?

A: You can expect around 10 minutes of prep time, with cooking taking an additional 20 minutes, making this meal ready in about 30 minutes!

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?

A: Absolutely! While penne works great, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as fusilli, farfalle, or even gluten-free pasta.

Q: How do I store leftovers safely?

A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Ensure it’s cooled before placing it in the refrigerator, and reheat thoroughly before consuming.

This recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your dinner repertoire—quick, creamy, and comforting! Enjoy your cooking adventure!