The High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe is a hearty and nutritious dish that brings together lean beef, penne pasta, and a velvety sauce enriched with Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese. It’s filling, full of flavor, and balanced with protein, carbs, and healthy fats.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family gatherings, this recipe combines the comfort of pasta with the benefits of a high-protein meal that fuels your body.
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The Story Behind This Recipe
Why This Pasta Is Different
Most creamy pasta recipes rely heavily on cream, but this one uses Greek yogurt to create a lighter, protein-packed sauce. The beef provides a robust savory base, while the pasta makes it satisfying and filling. Together, they form a meal that doesn’t just taste good but also supports a balanced diet.
A Dish for Busy Weeknights
This recipe is designed to be quick, simple, and wholesome. With only a handful of ingredients, it can be made in under 40 minutes. That makes it ideal for busy professionals, parents, or anyone looking for a nourishing dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
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High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe
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Description
A hearty and high-protein creamy beef pasta made with lean ground beef, penne, Greek yogurt, and Parmesan for a balanced and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Main 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
Olive oil for cooking
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in skillet. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer.
5. Lower heat. Stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan until sauce is creamy.
6. Add pasta to skillet and toss to coat.
7. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm.
Notes
For added nutrition, toss in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber. Store leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months.
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Nutrition
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Ingredients and Preparation
Main 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
- Olive oil, for cooking
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Ingredient Notes and Swaps
Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and micronutrients. Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a leaner version. For dairy-free alternatives, use unsweetened coconut yogurt and nutritional yeast instead of Greek yogurt and Parmesan.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to package directions.
- Drain and set aside.
Making the Beef Mixture
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and soft.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Creating the Creamy Sauce
- Lower heat and stir in Greek yogurt.
- Add Parmesan cheese and mix until creamy.
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
Combining Everything
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef mixture.
- Toss until pasta is fully coated in sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
Serving and Pairing Idea
Best Ways to Serve
Serve this pasta in shallow bowls with extra Parmesan sprinkled on top. Pair it with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It also works well as part of a weekly meal prep rotation.
Drink Pairings
Red wines like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon complement the beef. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with lemon balances the richness. Pairing with Best Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe creates a cozy finish.
Storage and Reheatin
How to Store
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating Tips
Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid overheating to prevent yogurt from curdling.
Freezer Friendly?
Yes, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition Benefit
High in Protein
With beef and Greek yogurt, this pasta delivers a strong protein profile that supports muscle recovery and satiety.
Balanced Macronutrients
Carbohydrates from pasta fuel energy, while healthy fats from olive oil and Parmesan round out the meal.
Customizable for Extra Nutrition
Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for more fiber and micronutrients without changing the flavor profile.
Variations and Twists
Veggie Boost
Add zucchini, peas, or broccoli for a more nutrient-dense version.
Spicy Kick
Stir in red pepper flakes or chili oil for heat.
Dairy-Free Option
Replace Greek yogurt with cashew cream or unsweetened coconut yogurt.
FAQ Section
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, fusilli, rotini, or spaghetti all work well with this creamy beef sauce.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and check your broth and seasoning labels.
What’s the best way to make it ahead?
Cook the beef mixture and pasta separately. Combine just before serving for best texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it scales easily. Use a larger skillet or Dutch oven to handle the volume.
Conclusion
The High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe is hearty, flavorful, and nutrient-dense. It’s quick to make, packed with protein, and easily customizable with different vegetables or spice levels. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers comfort and nutrition in every serving.
