High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe for Quick Weeknight Dinners Recipe
Introduction
This high protein creamy beef pasta is perfect for quick weeknight dinners when you want something comforting yet nutritious. Combining lean ground beef with creamy Greek yogurt and Parmesan makes for a rich, flavorful sauce that pairs beautifully with penne pasta.
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
- Step 1: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 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 translucent.
- Step 3: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
- 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 combine the flavors.
- Step 5: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy beef sauce.
- Step 6: Serve the creamy beef pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Tips & Variations
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences.
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add a handful of spinach or kale into the beef mixture for extra greens.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes while sautéing garlic and onions.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. You can also microwave covered in short intervals, stirring between.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture a day in advance. Store it separately from the pasta and combine just before serving to keep the pasta from becoming soggy.
Is Greek yogurt a good substitute for cream?
Absolutely. Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein with fewer calories and less fat than heavy cream. Just be sure to stir it in off the heat to prevent curdling.
Print
High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe for Quick Weeknight Dinners Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners. Combining lean ground beef and protein-rich Greek yogurt with tender penne pasta, it offers a creamy texture enhanced by Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, this dish balances wholesome ingredients with delicious taste for a satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
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
- Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside to be combined later.
- Sauté Aromatics and Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the lean ground beef to the skillet and cook it until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks to ensure even cooking.
- Add Remaining Ingredients and Simmer: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, low-sodium beef broth, plain Greek yogurt, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-7 minutes so the flavors meld and the beef mixture becomes creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Beef Mixture: Add the cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet with the beef sauce. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is fully coated and well mixed with the creamy beef mixture.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the creamy beef pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped basil or parsley to add a burst of freshness and color to the dish.
Notes
- To reduce sodium, use low-sodium beef broth and adjust salt accordingly.
- For a creamier texture, ensure the Greek yogurt is added off the heat or on low to prevent curdling.
- You can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or farfalle if preferred.
- Adding a splash of red wine to the beef mixture while simmering can enhance the depth of flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: high protein beef pasta, creamy beef pasta, quick weeknight dinner, lean ground beef pasta, healthy beef pasta recipe, Greek yogurt pasta sauce
