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High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe for Quick Weeknight Dinners

Name: High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces penne pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound lean ground beef; 15 ounces diced tomatoes, with juices; 1 cup low-sodium beef broth; ½ cup plain Greek yogurt; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

When life gets busy and the dinner clock is ticking louder than ever, you need a recipe that not only satisfies but also fills you up with nourishing flavor. This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is the perfect solution, offering a delightful blend of hearty ingredients wrapped in a creamy sauce that even the pickiest eaters will love. Imagine curling up with a bowl of this comforting dish — it’s like a warm hug after a long day.

Why Make This Recipe

Packed with protein to keep you energized.
Quick and easy—perfect for weeknight cooking.
A creamy, savory blend that makes pasta night exciting.

This dish beautifully marries lean ground beef with a rich sauce and al dente pasta, creating an unforgettable comforting meal that doesn’t take all night to prepare.

Simple Way to Prepare High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

Cooking doesn’t have to be tedious, especially with a recipe as satisfying and straightforward as this one. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you master the art of creamy beef pasta, ensuring that you can serve a delicious meal on the table in no time.

Step 1: Cook Your Pasta

Start with a pot of water: bring it to a rolling boil. Add 8 ounces of penne pasta, seasoning the water with a splash of salt to enhance the flavor. Cook according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside while you prepare the beef sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Grab a large skillet and pour in a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, toss in a medium onion, chopped, along with 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté them until fragrant—about 2 to 3 minutes—making sure not to let the garlic burn.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and allow it to brown thoroughly, cooking for around 5 to 7 minutes. The key here is to brown the beef well; it will intensify the flavor of your pasta later.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Now, stir in a can of diced tomatoes (15 ounces, with juices), 1 cup of low-sodium beef broth, ½ cup of plain Greek yogurt, and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. These ingredients will blend into a creamy, luxurious sauce. Finally, sprinkle in a tablespoon of Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the mixture for a few minutes, letting it thicken slightly while the flavors meld together.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

It’s time for the star of the show — the cooked penne pasta. Add it to the skillet, and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy beef sauce. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will surely have everyone flocking to the dinner table.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once plated, garnish with fresh basil or parsley for that extra touch of color and flavor. Serve immediately, and get ready for everyone to dig in!

Storage Tips for High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare since it’s so delicious), here are some helpful storage tips:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days at 40°F.
Freeze: If you want to save it for later, you can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container to retain its quality.
Reheat: When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to revive the creaminess.

Best Ways to Serve High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

There are numerous ways to serve this delectable dish that can elevate your dining experience:

With a Side Salad: A light side salad with crispy greens and a tangy vinaigrette perfectly balances the richness of the creamy beef pasta.
Garlic Bread: For a true Italian experience, serve warm garlic bread alongside — perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
Wine Pairings: A glass of red wine, like a Chianti or Merlot, complements the flavors beautifully.

Tips to Make High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

Use non-fat Greek yogurt: This keeps the dish creamy without added calories.
Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to tweak the Italian seasoning to match your taste—add more for a punch or tone it down for a milder flavor.
Add veggies: Sneaking in some sautéed spinach or bell peppers can elevate the nutritional value and add some vibrant colors to your plate.

Variations or Substitutions

If you want to mix things up a bit, consider these alterations:

Swap the protein: While this recipe uses lean ground beef, you can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Make it vegetarian: Replace the meat with plant-based ground meat or use lentils for a protein-rich, vegetarian version that still packs a flavorful punch.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy beef sauce ahead of time and mix in the pasta just before serving. This is perfect for those super busy weeknights.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of beef?
A: Yes! But keep in mind that chicken thighs tend to require a bit longer to cook through, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

Q: How do I make it spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes to the beef while browning.
Include chopped jalapeños along with the onions for added heat.

Nutritional Information

This creamy beef pasta is not only flavorful but also quite nutritious. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving:

Calories: 400
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 10g

This hearty dish provides ample protein and energy, making it perfect for a post-workout meal or a satisfying family dinner.

Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Pasta Dish

Pasta Timing: Make sure to add the pasta to the beef mixture just before serving to avoid it becoming mushy.
Experiment with Spices: Beyond Italian seasoning, consider adding smoked paprika or freshly cracked black pepper for an added depth of flavor.
Don’t Skip the Garnish: Fresh basil or parsley does more than just look pretty — it also enhances the flavor profile.

By now, you should feel ready to take on this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta recipe with confidence. It’s an ultimate weeknight dinner that can easily be on the table in around 30 minutes, nourishing both body and soul alike.

Whether you’re looking for something hearty to warm you up or a quick meal solution that the whole family will enjoy, this satisfying dish is here to save the day. So grab those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to whip up a meal that’s bound to become a regular favorite in your cooking repertoire. Happy cooking!