High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe for Quick Weeknight Dinners Recipe

Introduction

This high protein creamy beef pasta is a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining lean ground beef with a creamy sauce made from Greek yogurt and Parmesan, it delivers comfort and nutrition in every bite.

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 a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened.
3. Step 3: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink.
4. Step 4: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, Greek yogurt, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Step 5: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy beef sauce.
6. Step 6: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a bright, fresh finish.

Tips & Variations

• For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of milk or cream along with the Greek yogurt.
• Swap penne for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
• Use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, but Greek yogurt is thicker and creamier, which helps create a rich sauce. If using regular yogurt, strain it first or add less liquid elsewhere to maintain texture.

Is this recipe freezer friendly?

You can freeze the cooked pasta, but the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to freeze in meal-sized portions and reheat gently to preserve quality.

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe for Quick Weeknight Dinners Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 143 reviews

• Author: Andria
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a wholesome and satisfying dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners. It combines lean ground beef, tender penne pasta, and a creamy sauce made with Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese, seasoned with Italian herbs and fresh garlic. This flavorful and hearty meal comes together in one skillet, making it both convenient and delicious.

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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 tbsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil (for cooking)

Creamy Sauce

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook Beef Mixture: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the lean ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked through.
3. Make Sauce: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices and low-sodium beef broth into the skillet. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for a few minutes. Then add the plain Greek yogurt, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a creamy sauce and allow it to heat through gently without boiling to prevent curdling.
4. Combine Pasta and Beef Mixture: Add the cooked penne pasta into the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and heated through.
5. Serve: Divide the creamy beef pasta among plates and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Notes

• Use lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier and reduce excess fat.
• If Greek yogurt is not available, substitute with sour cream, but Greek yogurt adds more protein and creaminess.
• Do not boil the sauce after adding Greek yogurt to prevent it from curdling; gentle simmering is sufficient.
• For extra veggies, add chopped bell peppers or spinach while cooking the onions.
• This recipe can be easily doubled for meal prep or larger families.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American

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