Looking for A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Meal You’ll Love Crock Pot Chicken Pot PieCrock Pot Chicken Pot Pie Shrimp Caesar SaladShrimp Caesar Salad Cheesy French Onion MeatballsCheesy French Onion Meatballs that feels like a warm, delicious hug on a plate? Say hello to this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta! It’s a perfect harmony of tender penne, hearty lean ground beef, and a luscious, creamy tomato-Parmesan sauce enriched with Greek yogurt for that extra punch of protein and velvety goodness. Ready in about 30 minutes, this dish brings comfort, nutrition, and simplicity all together for an unbeatable weeknight favorite you’ll keep coming back to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is all it takes to master this dish—each adding a unique layer of flavor, richness, or texture that make this recipe truly sing.

• 8 oz penne pasta: The ideal pasta shape to trap the creamy sauce in every bite.
• 1 lb lean ground beef: Provides a protein-packed, flavorful foundation without being greasy.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce’s base.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic notes.
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with juices: Brings acidity and freshness that balance the creaminess.
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth: Creates a rich, savory backdrop for all the ingredients.
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: The secret to creamy texture while boosting protein and keeping it light.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty umami for that irresistible flavor kick.
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that ties the whole dish together.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to bring harmony to all elements.
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish: Adds a burst of freshness and lovely color to serve.
• Olive oil (for cooking): Helps to sauté and builds flavor from the start.

How to Make CREAMY BEEF PASTA RECIPE

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente—usually about 9 to 11 minutes. When perfectly tender but still with a bite, drain the pasta and set it aside. There’s no need to rinse it! Keeping the pasta slightly sticky helps the sauce cling tightly and deliver flavor in every forkful.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

While the pasta cooks, warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the lean ground beef, breaking it apart with your spatula. Cooking the beef until nicely browned, about 6 to 8 minutes, builds a rich, savory flavor base that’s essential here. If you spot excess fat, drain it off to keep your dish clean and healthy without sacrificing juiciness.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Next, add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and sauté for around 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic, cooking just 30 seconds until fragrant. This step develops the aromatic foundation of your sauce, filling your kitchen with that cozy, inviting scent.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, add beef broth, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning along with salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for 5 to 7 minutes so the flavors can meld and the sauce thickens slightly, setting the stage for the creamy finish.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

With the heat off, gently stir in the Greek yogurt and grated Parmesan cheese. This is the magic moment when your sauce transforms into a luscious, creamy delight without heavy cream. Adding the yogurt off heat ensures it blends smoothly without curdling, creating that perfect silky texture that coats every bit of pasta.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Now, toss the drained pasta directly into the skillet with your creamy beef sauce. Gently stir so every piece becomes enveloped in the rich, flavorful sauce. If needed, warm on low heat for a minute or two to marry the flavors and ensure everything is piping hot before plating.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Serve your creamy beef pasta with a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Extra Parmesan on top never hurts either. This dish shines when paired with a crisp salad or some warm, crusty bread on the side.

How to Serve CREAMY BEEF PASTA RECIPE

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only brighten this dish visually but also add a refreshing, herby lift that perfectly contrasts the creamy sauce. A few extra shavings of Parmesan can bring an irresistible savory finish.

Side Dishes

Keep it simple with a crisp green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad to match the Italian-inspired flavors. Garlic bread or roasted vegetables also make fantastic companions that round out the meal without overwhelming those delicious pasta tastes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls for that restaurant-quality feel. You can also plate it over a bed of sautéed spinach or nestled alongside roasted bell peppers for more color and nutrients. Adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top can give those who love a little heat a welcome kick.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover pasta in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious the next day. Just be sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing to keep it fresh.

Freezing

This creamy beef pasta freezes well for up to two months. Store in freezer-safe containers, portioned as desired. Keep in mind the texture of Greek yogurt might change slightly after thawing, but the flavor remains fantastic.

Reheating

When ready to eat, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce as needed. Microwaving in short bursts also works—just stir in between to keep it creamy and evenly warmed.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! This recipe works beautifully with rotini, rigatoni, shells—just about any short pasta that holds sauce well.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

The key is to remove the sauce from heat before stirring in the Greek yogurt and Parmesan. Stir quickly and gently to combine for a smooth, creamy texture.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, simply substitute Greek yogurt with a creamy dairy-free alternative like coconut or cashew yogurt, and use a vegan Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

It is! Just be aware that the texture of Greek yogurt may alter slightly after freezing. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in spinach, bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms while simmering the sauce to boost nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Meal You’ll Love Crock Pot Chicken Pot PieCrock Pot Chicken Pot Pie Shrimp Caesar SaladShrimp Caesar Salad Cheesy French Onion MeatballsCheesy French Onion Meatballs that is hearty, creamy, and protein-rich all at once, this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is going to become your new kitchen hero. Quick to whip up, easy to love, and endlessly versatile, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or anytime you want something that feels like a homemade hug. Give it a try and get ready to savor every satisfying bite!

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