High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe for Quick Weeknight Dinners
When you need a comforting, filling meal that doesn’t take hours to prepare, this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is the perfect solution. Made with lean ground beef, Greek yogurt, and Parmesan cheese, this dish delivers rich flavor and a creamy texture while keeping protein levels high. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or whenever you want a satisfying homemade dinner without the fuss.
Ingredients
Main 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 tablespoon Italian seasoning
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
Olive oil, for cooking
-
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta 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 chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. -
Make It Creamy
Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. -
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until everything is well coated. -
Serve
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.
Notes
-
Use lean beef (90/10 or 93/7) to keep fat lower while maintaining protein.
-
Don’t overheat after adding Greek yogurt—gentle simmering prevents curdling.
-
Boost protein further by adding a little extra Parmesan or stirring in cottage cheese.
-
Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
-
Swap pasta for whole wheat or high-protein pasta to increase fiber and protein.