High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe for Quick Weeknight Dinners

Cooking experiences often revolve around convenience and satisfaction—especially during those busy weeknights. I remember one such evening, when I opened the fridge to find a few basic ingredients staring back at me. I grabbed some penne pasta, lean ground beef, and a handful of pantry staples. That’s when the idea struck me: why not whip up a hearty, creamy beef pasta dish?

This high-protein creamy beef pasta recipe not only comes together in about 30 minutes, but it also packs in flavor and comfort. The creamy sauce, enriched with Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese, makes each bite a delight. Plus, it’s versatile enough to explore variations based on what you have at home. This dish quickly became a family favorite, earning its place in my weeknight dinner rotation.

Get ready to dive into this creamy beef pasta adventure that highlights simplicity and deliciousness. Let’s explore the steps to create a meal that satisfies hunger and warms hearts.

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

Fundamentals

Creating a delicious high protein creamy beef pasta starts with understanding your ingredients. Each component plays a pivotal role in building flavor and texture. Lean ground beef provides the protein base, while the penne pasta serves as the perfect vessel for the creamy sauce.

When choosing your beef, aim for a lean cut to keep the dish lighter. The cooking process preserves the beef’s natural juices while incorporating aromatic ingredients like onion and garlic. These fundamentals create a flavor base that elevates the entire dish.

Choosing the right pasta also matters. Penne’s ridged surface captures sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite burst with flavor. The creamy sauce, made from Greek yogurt and Parmesan, adds a rich, velvety texture that balances the hearty beef.

Preparation/Setup

Start by gathering all your ingredients to create a smooth cooking process. This recipe is straightforward and quick, perfect for anyone short on time. Have your chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced tomatoes ready. Measure out your beef broth and yogurt, and don’t forget to have your Parmesan cheese on hand.

Aim for a large skillet that can accommodate both the beef mixture and pasta comfortably. As the skillet heats, it’s essential to keep an eye on your ingredients and simplify the cooking steps. By following these preparation steps, you’ll streamline your dinner-making process and enjoy a flavorful meal in no time.

Ingredients

To craft your high protein creamy beef pasta, you will need the following ingredients:

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 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
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
• Olive oil (for cooking)

Directions

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and soft.
4. Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, the beef broth, Greek yogurt, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
6. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Once the beef mixture is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss until well combined.
8. Serve the creamy beef pasta garnished with fresh basil or parsley.

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Techniques

Technique

To achieve the perfect creamy consistency in your beef pasta, understanding temperature control is key. Start with medium heat to avoid overcooking the onions and garlic, which can lead to a bitter flavor. When you add the beef, keep stirring to ensure it cooks evenly while breaking it down.

Simmering the sauce allows flavors to develop fully. The goal is to let the diced tomatoes mingle with the beef and broth, enriching the overall taste. If you notice the sauce thickening too much during simmering, a splash of beef broth can bring it back to the desired creaminess.

Tips/Tricks

Here are a few tips to elevate your creamy beef pasta experience. First, consider the portion of Greek yogurt; it adds creaminess while also reducing total fat content. If you’re feeling adventurous, a hint of red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor with subtle heat.

Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only as a garnish but also as flavor enhancements. Adding them right before serving can make a remarkable difference. Lastly, taste throughout the cooking process; adjusting seasoning to your preference will ensure the final dish is perfectly tailored to your family’s palate.

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Perfection

Perfecting Results

To perfect your creamy beef pasta, focus on timing. The entire process should be quick enough to keep the pasta al dente while ensuring the beef is juicy and flavorful. Pay close attention during the simmering stage; you want it all to come together harmoniously.

Consistent stirring will help prevent anything from sticking, especially as the sauce thickens. If your sauce doesn’t reach the creamy texture you desire, don’t hesitate to add more Greek yogurt or a splash of broth for adjustment.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If your pasta seems too dry, a common troubleshooting step is to add more beef broth or Greek yogurt until you achieve the desired consistency. If the flavor seems off, a pinch of salt, pepper, or additional Italian seasoning can easily elevate the taste.

For variations, you can swap out penne with another pasta type such as rotini or fusilli that capture the sauce well. Thinking outside the box, consider incorporating vegetables—spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms—to add nutrients and color to the dish.

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Serving and Storage

Serving/Presentation

Presentation elevates your cooking, making it feel special. Plate the creamy beef pasta in shallow bowls, allowing room for showcasing basil or parsley on top. The vibrant green adds visual appeal while hinting at freshness. A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan cheese just before serving finishes it off beautifully.

Consider serving with a side salad or warm bread to complement the meal. This pasta dish stands strong as the star of the table while inviting side dishes to enhance the experience.

Pairings/Storage

Storing leftovers is straightforward. Transfer any remaining pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate. It keeps well for about three to four days, making it a perfect choice for meal prep.

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating in a skillet over medium-low heat keeps the dish creamy. Add a splash of beef broth or Greek yogurt during reheating to maintain that luscious consistency.

Creamy beef pasta can also be frozen for future enjoyment. Store it in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it is well-sealed, for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best results.

The high protein creamy beef pasta recipe brings together flavors and comfort, creating a weeknight staple in many homes. Savor the moments around the dinner table as much as the meal itself.

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

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• Author: emma
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A quick and satisfying creamy beef pasta made with lean ground beef, penne, and a rich Greek yogurt sauce, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 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
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
• Olive oil (for cooking)

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Instructions

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and soft.
4. Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, the beef broth, Greek yogurt, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
6. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Once the beef mixture is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss until well combined.
8. Serve the creamy beef pasta garnished with fresh basil or parsley.

Notes

Adjust seasoning to taste and add more Greek yogurt or broth for desired creaminess. This dish is versatile; feel free to add vegetables or use different pasta shapes.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: pasta, beef, creamy, weeknight dinner, quick meals, healthy