High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe for Quick Weeknight Dinners Recipe

Introduction

This high-protein creamy beef pasta is perfect for quick weeknight dinners. It combines lean ground beef with tender penne pasta in a flavorful, creamy sauce made richer with Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese.

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)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened.
3. Step 3: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
4. Step 4: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Step 5: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef mixture. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
6. Step 6: Serve the creamy beef pasta garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Tips & Variations

• For extra veggies, add chopped bell peppers or spinach when sautéing the onions.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs.
• Swap Greek yogurt for sour cream if preferred, though yogurt keeps it a bit lighter.
• Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving for a cheesier finish.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef. Just cook them thoroughly and adjust seasoning as needed.

Is it necessary to use Greek yogurt in the sauce?

Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein while keeping the sauce lighter than heavy cream. However, you can substitute sour cream or a cream alternative if preferred.

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe for Quick Weeknight Dinners Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 117 reviews

This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a delicious and comforting weeknight dinner that’s quick to prepare. Featuring lean ground beef, creamy Greek yogurt, and hearty penne pasta, this dish balances rich flavors with protein-packed ingredients for a satisfying meal. Perfect for busy evenings, it combines savory beef, aromatic Italian seasoning, and fresh herbs to create a wholesome and flavorful pasta dish.

• Author: Mila
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 8 oz penne pasta

Beef Mixture

• 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)

Garnish

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside.
2. Prepare Beef Mixture: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add 1 lb of lean ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Simmer Sauce: Stir in a 15 oz can of diced tomatoes with their juices, 1 cup of low-sodium beef broth, 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tbsp Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce heat to low and simmer the mixture for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the beef and sauce mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy beef sauce.
5. Serve: Dish the creamy beef pasta onto plates or bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for color and added freshness. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

• Using plain Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream keeps the dish creamy but lower in fat and adds extra protein.
• Drain pasta well to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.
• You can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or rotini.
• For extra spice, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions and garlic.
• This recipe can be made ahead and reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth to restore creaminess.

Keywords: high protein pasta, creamy beef pasta, quick weeknight dinner, ground beef pasta, healthy creamy pasta