High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a quick and nourishing weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and delicious. I found myself needing something hearty yet simple, and this dish came to the rescue. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, it’s perfect for busy weekdays when you still want a meal that feels special. The balance of protein from lean beef and Greek yogurt not only makes it a comforting choice but also a nutritious one for the family.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking only about 30 minutes from chopping to serving. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning less cleanup afterward! This dish is budget-friendly, using ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, and kid-approved—what’s not to love about cheesy pasta?
"This creamy beef pasta became an instant family favorite! The kids ask for it every week!" – Sarah M.
Preparing High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta: A Quick and Nourishing Weeknight Dinner
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward steps. You’ll start by cooking the pasta, sautéing the aromatics, and then combining everything for a savory symphony of flavors. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something nutritious on the table in no time.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:
- 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)
Substitutions to consider: You can swap the lean ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or use whole grain or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
Directions to Follow
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain it well 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 fragrant and the onion becomes translucent.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Mix Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined and creamy.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve your creamy beef pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serving this dish is as easy as it is delicious. Plate it with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for a rich finish, and add a fresh side salad for some crunch. This is also a great meal to pair with garlic bread—it complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
How to Store & Freeze
Storing leftovers? Let the pasta cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. It should last in the fridge for about 3 days. If you want to freeze some, portion it out and use freezer-safe containers—this dish can keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. For safety, always reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F before enjoying.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Avoid Overcooking: When cooking the pasta, aim for al dente; it’ll finish cooking in the sauce.
- Flavor Boost: A splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Make It Ahead: For busy nights, consider prepping the sauce ahead of time. Just heat it up and mix with freshly cooked pasta.
Creative Twists
Want to change things up? Try adding spinach or kale for a boost of greens or swap in different cheeses, like mozzarella, for a gooey stretch. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or oregano, for a unique taste.
Your Questions Answered
What’s the prep time for this dish?
The prep time is about 10 minutes, and cooking is around 20 minutes, making it a quick weeknight meal.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
This creamy pasta dish is typically a hit with kids due to its cheesy flavor and tender beef. Plus, it’s easy to disguise veggies if you want to sneak them in!
By following this guide, you’ll have a wholesome, high-protein creamy beef pasta that’s sure to delight your taste buds and satisfy your dinner crowd with ease! Enjoy!
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High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Standard
Description
A quick and nourishing weeknight dinner that features creamy textures and savory flavors, perfect for busy families seeking a satisfying meal.
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
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain it well and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined and creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
Notes
For a lighter option, substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken. Try adding spinach or kale for more greens.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: beef pasta, creamy pasta, quick dinners, high protein pasta