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High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe

5 from 5 reviews

This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a satisfying and nutritious meal perfect for dinner. Featuring lean ground beef, protein-rich Greek yogurt, and flavorful Italian seasonings, this dish combines tender penne pasta with a creamy, tomato-based sauce. It’s easy to prepare, wholesome, and packed with delicious flavors that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz penne pasta

Meat & Vegetables

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids & Dairy

  • 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

Seasonings & Garnish

  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
  • Olive oil (for cooking)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: While the pasta cooks, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Cook the Ground Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the can of diced tomatoes along with their juices and the low-sodium beef broth. Add the Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes to blend the flavors.
  5. Incorporate Greek Yogurt and Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the plain Greek yogurt and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and well combined. This step enriches the sauce without adding excessive fat.
  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy beef sauce.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over the dish for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier and lower in fat.
  • Substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream if preferred, but Greek yogurt adds more protein.
  • For a richer sauce, stir in a little more Parmesan or a splash of cream if desired.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave.
  • Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for more nutrients.

Nutrition

Keywords: high protein beef pasta, creamy beef pasta, healthy pasta recipe, Greek yogurt pasta sauce, easy beef pasta