Name: High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe for Quick Weeknight Dinners Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
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)

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Introduction

This high protein creamy beef pasta is a perfect quick weeknight dinner that combines hearty ground beef with a smooth, flavorful sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s both satisfying and simple to make.

A black bowl filled with creamy pasta made of short tube-shaped noodles covered in a thick orange sauce mixed with ground meat and small bits of green herbs, scattered with fresh small green leaves on top. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Around the bowl, there are seven bright red small tomatoes, a wedge of pale yellow cheese, fresh green herb sprigs, and a basil leaf. A white cloth with black zigzag trim is placed under part of the bowl. 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, sautéing until fragrant and softened.
Step 3: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
Step 4: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors and slightly thicken.
Step 5: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef mixture. Toss gently until the pasta is evenly coated and well combined.
Step 6: Serve the creamy beef pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a bright finish.

Tips & Variations

Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences without losing flavor.
For extra vegetables, add chopped spinach or bell peppers when sautéing the onions and garlic.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
If you prefer a richer sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream instead of Greek yogurt.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

A close-up of a black bowl filled with creamy pasta showing three layers: the bottom layer has penne pasta in pale yellow, the middle layer is mixed ground meat in light brown chunks scattered evenly, and the top layer is a thick, smooth orange cheese sauce covering everything, sprinkled with black pepper flakes and small pieces of fresh green parsley leaves for a touch of color, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute penne with any pasta shape you like such as fusilli, rigatoni, or rotini. Cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly.

Is Greek yogurt a good substitute for cream?

Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein with less fat than cream. Be sure to add it off the heat or on low heat to prevent curdling.