CREAMY BEEF PASTA RECIPE
This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a quick and nourishing weeknight dinner combining lean ground beef, tender penne pasta, and a creamy tomato-Parmesan sauce lightened with Greek yogurt. It’s a protein-packed, family-friendly meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings and meal prepping with rich flavors and a comforting texture.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Salt
Ingredients
Scale
Protein & Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
Aromatics & Flavor Base
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning (blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Creamy Elements & Cheese
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Cooking & Garnish
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 9–11 minutes. Drain and set aside. Do not rinse to keep the starch for sauce adherence.
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spatula. Cook for 6–8 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary to keep the dish lean.
- Add Onions & Garlic: Stir in chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Build the Sauce: Add diced tomatoes with juices, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 5–7 minutes so flavors meld and sauce reduces slightly.
- Make It Creamy: Remove skillet from heat. Stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Adding yogurt off the heat prevents curdling.
- Combine Pasta & Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the beef sauce. Toss gently to coat each piece evenly. Warm over low heat for 1–2 minutes if needed.
- Garnish & Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Optionally add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve hot alongside a salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Add vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauce for extra nutrition and color.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences or increase fiber content.
- To make it spicier, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper when building the sauce.
- For a cheesy upgrade, stir in shredded mozzarella before serving or bake with mozzarella on top.
- Swap lean ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein alternative.
- For a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with mushrooms or lentils.
- Always add Greek yogurt off the heat to avoid curdling and maintain a smooth texture.
- Save a little pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce consistency when tossing.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or in short microwave bursts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3.5 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: high protein pasta, creamy beef pasta, healthy pasta recipe, quick weeknight dinner, Greek yogurt pasta sauce, lean ground beef recipe, easy Italian pasta
