Description
This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner that combines lean ground beef with penne pasta in a creamy tomato sauce enriched with Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese. Packed with protein and flavor, this dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Ingredients
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 tbsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for cooking)
Creamy Sauce
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Prepare Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, low-sodium beef broth, Greek yogurt, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until heated through and the flavors meld.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the beef and creamy sauce mixture. Toss gently until the pasta is evenly coated and combined with the sauce.
- Serve: Plate the creamy beef pasta and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of freshness and added color. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content and keep the dish healthier.
- Greek yogurt adds creaminess with extra protein while keeping the sauce lighter than heavy cream.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of beef broth or pasta cooking water to reach desired consistency.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley brighten the dish and enhance flavor.
- Can be made ahead and reheated on stove or microwave, adding a little broth if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
