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High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe

5.2 from 26 reviews

This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta recipe combines lean ground beef with tender penne pasta, enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce made from Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese. Enhanced with Italian seasoning, garlic, and onion, this dish offers a hearty, flavorful, and protein-packed meal that is perfect for dinner or meal prepping.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz penne pasta

Beef Mixture

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce

  • 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

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. Brown the beef and sauté aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add tomatoes and beef broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and low-sodium beef broth. Stir in the Italian seasoning and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
  4. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the beef and tomato mixture. Stir well to combine evenly.
  5. Make it creamy: Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the plain Greek yogurt and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce is creamy and coats the pasta and beef evenly. Avoid boiling after adding the yogurt to prevent curdling.
  6. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs like parsley or basil.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) to reduce fat content without sacrificing flavor.
  • Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a protein boost while keeping the dish lighter than traditional cream sauces.
  • You can substitute penne pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
  • If you want more sauce, increase the beef broth by 1/2 cup.
  • For an added vegetable boost, stir in fresh spinach or bell peppers when adding the tomatoes.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: high protein beef pasta, creamy beef pasta, healthy beef pasta recipe, Italian beef pasta, protein packed pasta dish