Description

This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a delicious, hearty meal combining lean ground beef with creamy Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese, tossed with penne pasta and seasoned with Italian herbs. It’s a flavorful, protein-packed dinner that’s perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

8 oz penne pasta

Meat and 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

Cook the 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 and set aside.
Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Brown the beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add liquids and seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), low-sodium beef broth, plain Greek yogurt, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes on low heat to combine the flavors and slightly thicken the sauce.
Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the beef and sauce mixture. Toss everything together gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy, flavorful sauce.
Serve and garnish: Plate the creamy beef pasta and garnish with fresh basil or parsley leaves. Serve warm for a comforting and protein-rich meal.

Notes

Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content while maintaining protein.
Greek yogurt adds creaminess with extra protein and less fat compared to cream.
Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt, since Parmesan and broth add saltiness.
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add a bright, fresh flavor and garnish.
This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing and Simmering
Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/4 of recipe)
Calories: 450 kcal
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 450 mg
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 35 g
Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: high protein beef pasta, creamy beef pasta, lean ground beef recipe, healthy pasta dinner, Greek yogurt pasta sauce