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High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta for Quick Weeknight Dinners Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 77 reviews
  • Author: Gabriel
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that combines lean ground beef with penne pasta in a rich, creamy sauce made from Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese. Enhanced with Italian seasoning and fresh herbs, this recipe offers a comforting and nutritious meal perfect for busy evenings.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz penne pasta

Beef Mixture

  • 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)

Garnish

  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
  2. Cook Beef Mixture: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Add the lean ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, low-sodium beef broth, plain Greek yogurt, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for a few minutes to blend the flavors and thicken slightly.
  3. Combine Pasta and Beef Mixture: Add the cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet with the beef mixture. Toss everything thoroughly to combine and evenly coat the pasta in the creamy sauce.
  4. Serve: Plate the creamy beef pasta and garnish with fresh basil or parsley leaves for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content while maintaining high protein.
  • Greek yogurt adds creaminess with extra protein and less fat compared to heavy cream.
  • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste after combining all ingredients.
  • Fresh herbs like basil or parsley brighten the dish and add freshness.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives and use vegetable broth.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: High protein pasta, creamy beef pasta, quick weeknight dinner, healthy pasta recipe, lean ground beef recipe

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Find it online: https://gabriellangdon.com/high-protein-creamy-beef-pasta-for-quick-weeknight-dinners-recipe/