High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe

When you crave a cozy comfort meal but want to keep things healthy and energizing, this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta truly delivers. Each forkful offers a gorgeous blend of tender penne, savory beef, and a lusciously creamy sauce with just the right balance thanks to Greek yogurt and Parmesan. The best part? It comes together swiftly for those jam-packed weeknights, with big flavor and a family-pleasing texture you’ll look forward to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta plays a starring role in both flavor and texture, keeping it hearty but not heavy. These kitchen staples come together effortlessly for a crowd-pleasing dish—no fancy techniques required, just simple goodness at its finest.

• 8 oz penne pasta: The perfect sturdy noodle to soak up every bit of the silky sauce.
• 1 lb lean ground beef: Opt for lean beef to boost protein while keeping things lighter, yet robustly savory.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the beef base.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for their aromatic punch—don’t skip the garlic!
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices): Brings acidity, brightness, and color to the sauce.
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth: Deepens the savory flavor and keeps the sauce rich but not heavy.
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: This high-protein swap for cream is the secret to luxurious creaminess without the guilt.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Salty, nutty, and utterly essential for maximum umami.
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that instantly gives a kiss of Italian flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning precision—taste as you go!
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs brings color and a pop of freshness at the end.
• Olive oil (for cooking): Helps sauté everything to golden perfection and infuses the base with a lovely finish.

How to Make High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks together. Once the noodles are al dente and perfectly tender, drain them well and set aside. This little head start ensures your pasta won’t get mushy when combined with the creamy beef sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In a roomy skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and let it sizzle until it turns translucent and just a bit golden at the edges. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute more. The kitchen will smell incredible and these aromatics lay the flavor foundation for your High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the lean ground beef directly to the pan with your onion and garlic. Use a wooden spoon to break it into small pieces as it cooks. Continue sautéing until the beef loses its pinkness and browns lightly. The beef will absorb all those onion and garlic flavors, creating a deliciously hearty base.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and pour in the beef broth, then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Next, stir in the Greek yogurt and grated Parmesan, whisking or stirring carefully to blend everything into a creamy, cohesive sauce. Let this mixture gently simmer for a few minutes—watch as it thickens and becomes luxuriously smooth!

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Beef Mixture

Add the drained penne back to the skillet. Use tongs or a spatula to toss everything together, making sure every piece of pasta is lovingly coated in that high protein creamy beef goodness. Give it a quick taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. In just minutes, dinner is ready to serve!

How to Serve High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

Garnishes

A vibrant sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley right before serving instantly brightens your High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta. The herbs add a fresh pop of color and a fragrant finish that sets off the richness of the dish beautifully—don’t skip this final chef’s kiss!

Side Dishes

This high protein pasta is a meal on its own, but you can easily round out the table with a crisp green salad, some blistered cherry tomatoes, or roasted broccoli. For extra comfort, serve alongside a crunchy piece of garlic bread or a handful of marinated olives.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta in individual bowls with a dusting of Parmesan and a swirl of olive oil, or plate it family-style in a big, rustic dish for everyone to dig in together. If you want to wow dinner guests, finish with a dollop of Greek yogurt and extra fresh herbs on top for a chef-worthy touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch as irresistible as dinner.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of this pasta—just cool it completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the sauce may thicken slightly upon reheating, but a splash of broth or milk will bring back its creaminess.

Reheating

Reheat your pasta gently in a skillet or in the microwave, adding a little extra broth, milk, or even a spoonful of Greek yogurt to revive the sauce’s silken texture. Stir frequently and heat until steaming hot, so every bite is as luscious as the first.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta?

Absolutely! Penne’s sturdiness works so well, but you can swap in any short pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or even whole wheat varieties for extra nutrition. Just make sure to cook it until al dente so it holds up in the creamy sauce.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Yes, you can easily adapt this dish by using non-dairy yogurt (like soy or coconut-based) and a vegan Parmesan substitute. The dish will still be comforting with plenty of protein and creamy goodness in every bite.

What veggies can I add to boost nutrition?

Toss in a few handfuls of baby spinach, chopped bell peppers, or mushrooms to the beef mixture as it cooks. Not only do these add extra nutrients and color, but they also increase the overall heartiness of your High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta.

Can I make this recipe ahead for meal prep?

Definitely! Prepare the pasta as directed and portion it out into containers for easy high-protein lunches or dinners all week. It reheats beautifully and keeps you fueled and satisfied.

Will Greek yogurt curdle in the sauce?

Greek yogurt stays creamy when stirred in gently over medium heat—avoid high, rapid heat once you add the yogurt to keep your sauce perfectly silky. If you’re nervous, temper the yogurt first with a little hot sauce before mixing it in.

Final Thoughts

If you’re on the hunt for a dinner that’s quick, indulgent, and packed with nourishment, give this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta a try. The minimal prep work, irresistible flavors, and creamy comfort make this a recipe you’ll want to keep in your weeknight rotation. Your future self (and your hungry crowd) will thank you!

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