High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta (Quick Weeknight Dinner)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Introduction
Finding a dinner that is quick, comforting, and nutritionally balanced can feel like an impossible task—especially on busy weeknights when time and energy are limited. That’s exactly where High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta (Quick Weeknight Dinner) comes in. This recipe delivers everything you want from a cozy pasta dish—rich flavor, creamy texture, and satisfying heartiness—while keeping protein high and preparation time short.
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Unlike traditional creamy pasta recipes that rely heavily on butter and heavy cream, this version uses lean ground beef, Greek yogurt, and Parmesan cheese to create a luscious sauce that feels indulgent but fits into a more balanced lifestyle. The result is a dish that tastes like comfort food yet supports protein goals, making it ideal for families, active individuals, and anyone looking for a healthier pasta option without sacrificing flavor.
What makes this recipe especially appealing is its versatility. It works just as well for a casual family dinner as it does for meal prep, and it’s easily customizable with different vegetables, pasta shapes, or spice levels. Best of all, it comes together in just 35 minutes, making it a reliable go-to when you need dinner on the table fast.
If you’re searching for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t feel rushed, a high-protein pasta that’s actually creamy, or a meal that pleases both kids and adults, this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta (Quick Weeknight Dinner) deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.
Why You’ll Love This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
This dish isn’t just fast—it’s thoughtfully designed to check multiple boxes at once. Here’s why it works so well.
High in Protein Without Tasting “Healthy”
With approximately 38 grams of protein per serving, this pasta keeps you full and energized. The protein comes primarily from lean ground beef, Greek yogurt, and Parmesan cheese, creating a balanced macronutrient profile without relying on protein powders or artificial additives.
Creamy Without Heavy Cream
Greek yogurt replaces heavy cream, delivering a velvety texture with far less saturated fat. When combined with Parmesan and beef broth, it creates a smooth, rich sauce that coats every piece of pasta beautifully.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
From start to finish, this recipe takes just 35 minutes. Everything is made on the stovetop, and cleanup is minimal—ideal for evenings when you want a homemade meal but don’t want to spend an hour cooking.
Family-Friendly and Customizable
The flavors are mild, savory, and comforting, making this dish a hit with kids and adults alike. At the same time, it’s easy to adjust—add vegetables, spice it up, or swap the pasta to suit your preferences.
Great for Meal Prep
This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta (Quick Weeknight Dinner) reheats well and stores beautifully in the fridge, making it a smart option for lunches or make-ahead dinners.
Ingredients + Tips
Main Ingredients
Penne Pasta (8 oz)
Penne is ideal because its ridges hold onto the creamy sauce. You can substitute whole-wheat or high-protein pasta if desired.
Lean Ground Beef (1 lb)
Using lean beef (90/10 or 93/7) keeps the dish high in protein without excess grease. Extra-lean beef works too but may benefit from a splash of broth for moisture.
Onion (1 medium, chopped)
Adds natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Yellow or white onions work best.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
Fresh garlic enhances the savory base of the sauce. Avoid garlic powder if possible—it won’t deliver the same aroma.
Diced Tomatoes (15 oz can, with juices)
These provide acidity and balance the richness of the sauce. Fire-roasted tomatoes add extra depth if you have them.
Low-Sodium Beef Broth (1 cup)
Creates body for the sauce while keeping sodium under control. Chicken broth can be substituted in a pinch.
Plain Greek Yogurt (½ cup)
The key to the creamy texture. Use full-fat or 2% for best results; nonfat can curdle more easily.
Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup, grated)
Adds saltiness and umami. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-shredded.
Italian Seasoning (1 tablespoon)
A blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary gives classic Italian flavor.
Salt & Black Pepper
Season gradually and taste as you go, especially because Parmesan adds salt.
Olive Oil
Used for sautéing and enhancing flavor.
Fresh Basil or Parsley (optional)
Adds brightness and a fresh finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Tip: Reserve ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until fully browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Tip: Don’t rush this step—proper browning adds flavor.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Add the Creamy Elements
Remove the skillet from heat. Gently stir in the Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Important: Adding yogurt off the heat prevents curdling.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve immediately.
Tips for Best Results
Prevent Curdling
Always remove the pan from heat before adding Greek yogurt. Stir gently and avoid boiling after adding dairy.
Boost Protein Even More
Blend ¼ cup cottage cheese into the sauce for an extra protein punch without altering flavor significantly.
Make It Spicier
Add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Add Vegetables
Spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers pair beautifully with this dish.
Meal Prep Friendly
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Variations
Low-Carb Version
Swap the pasta for chickpea pasta, lentil pasta, or zucchini noodles.
Mediterranean Style
Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese.
Cheesy Upgrade
Mix in mozzarella or provolone for extra meltiness.
Tex-Mex Twist
Use taco seasoning instead of Italian seasoning and add corn and black beans.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess.
Freezing:
Freezing is possible but may slightly alter the texture due to the yogurt. Stir well after reheating.
High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta (Quick Weeknight Dinner)
This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is an easy, satisfying dinner made for busy weeknights. Lean ground beef provides plenty of protein, while Greek yogurt and Parmesan create a creamy sauce without using heavy cream. It’s comforting, filling, and comes together in just over 30 minutes—perfect for the whole family.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
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8 oz penne pasta
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1 lb lean ground beef
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1 medium onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
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1 cup low-sodium beef broth
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½ cup plain Greek yogurt
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Olive oil, for cooking
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Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. -
Cook the Beef Mixture
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. -
Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain excess fat if needed. -
Make the Sauce
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and gently stir in the Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until creamy. -
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.
Notes
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Prevent curdling: Remove the pan from heat before adding Greek yogurt and stir gently.
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Boost protein: Use extra-lean beef or add a small amount of cottage cheese blended into the sauce.
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Make it spicier: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of chili powder.
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Extra veggies: Bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini work great in this dish.
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Meal prep friendly: Stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
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Calories: 480 kcal
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Protein: 38 g
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Carbohydrates: 42 g
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Fat: 18 g
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Fiber: 4 g
Final Thoughts (300 Words)
This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta (Quick Weeknight Dinner) proves that fast food doesn’t have to mean unhealthy food. With its balanced combination of lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and a creamy sauce made without heavy cream, this dish strikes the perfect middle ground between comfort and nutrition. It’s satisfying enough to curb cravings yet light enough to fit into a well-rounded meal plan.
One of the greatest strengths of this recipe is its flexibility. Whether you’re cooking for a family, prepping lunches for the week, or trying to increase your daily protein intake, this pasta adapts effortlessly to your needs. You can add vegetables for extra nutrients, adjust the seasoning to suit your palate, or swap ingredients to align with dietary preferences—all without compromising the dish’s core appeal.
