Introduction

This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal. Combining lean ground beef with creamy Greek yogurt and Parmesan, it’s both hearty and nourishing.

A close-up view of a large round black pan filled with creamy pasta. The dish has three main layers: the bottom layer is made of cooked penne pasta, pale yellow and tubular. The middle layer is thick, light brown ground meat mixed evenly throughout. The top layer is a rich, creamy orange sauce coating the pasta and meat, with melted cheese sprinkled over, adding a slightly melted texture and white color. Small green parsley leaves are scattered on top with specks of black pepper, giving a fresh look against the creamy sauce. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface with green garnishing blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant and softened.
Step 3: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart 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. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy beef sauce.
Step 6: Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Tips & Variations

For extra veggies, add chopped bell peppers or spinach when sautéing the onions.
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Use full-fat Greek yogurt for a richer creaminess or low-fat for a lighter version.
Fresh Parmesan grated at the end enhances flavor more than pre-grated cheese.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a creamy pasta dish in a white bowl with a dark rim. The pasta is penne, coated in a thick, orange-colored sauce mixed with small pieces of browned ground meat spread evenly throughout. A layer of melted cheese sits on top in the middle, creamy and slightly browned, sprinkled with small bits of chopped green herbs and black pepper flakes. The texture of the sauce looks rich and smooth, coating every piece of pasta, and the dish appears warm and inviting. The background features a white marbled texture and some soft green leaves slightly out of focus. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape like fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle works well with this recipe. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Is Greek yogurt a good substitute for cream?

Absolutely. Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein while keeping the dish lighter than using heavy cream.

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 99 reviews

This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a hearty and nutritious dish featuring lean ground beef, protein-rich Greek yogurt, and penne pasta all combined in a flavorful, creamy tomato sauce. It’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner that balances comfort and health.

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

Ingredients

Scale

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 & Garnish

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook Pasta: Prepare the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to be mixed later.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Brown the Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook it thoroughly, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned and no longer pink.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, Greek yogurt, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer the mixture for several minutes to meld the flavors and thicken the sauce slightly.
Toss Pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the beef and creamy tomato sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Serve: Plate the creamy beef pasta and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Use lean ground beef to keep the dish lower in fat while maintaining protein content.
The Greek yogurt adds creaminess without the fat of heavy cream, making the pasta healthier.
Ensure to simmer gently after adding dairy to prevent curdling.
Can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli.
For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and onions.

Keywords: high protein pasta, creamy beef pasta, healthy beef pasta, Greek yogurt pasta, easy weeknight dinner, penne pasta recipe