High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe
This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta combines lean ground beef and penne pasta in a rich, creamy sauce made with Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese, delivering a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s both nutritious and easy to prepare.
- Author: Naya
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing and Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Protein and Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Dairy
- 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
Seasonings and Garnishes
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Olive oil (for cooking)
- Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside for later use.
- Sauté Aromatics and Brown Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until they become fragrant and translucent. Next, add the lean ground beef and cook thoroughly until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes along with their juices and the low-sodium beef broth. Let the mixture simmer gently to meld the flavors, approximately 3-5 minutes.
- Incorporate Creamy Elements and Seasonings: Lower the heat and mix in the plain Greek yogurt and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste, stirring well to combine.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta into the skillet with the beef and creamy tomato sauce. Toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly and warm through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without compromising protein content.
- Substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream or cream cheese if preferred, but Greek yogurt adds protein and reduces fat.
- Cook pasta al dente to avoid overcooking when combined with the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, starting with less salt because of the Parmesan and broth.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley brighten the dish with color and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: high protein pasta, creamy beef pasta, lean ground beef recipe, Greek yogurt pasta sauce, healthy beef pasta