Name: High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
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)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re seeking a wholesome and utterly comforting meal that packs a nutritional punch, look no further than this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something rich and satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this dish combines tender pasta, lean beef, and a creamy, tangy sauce to satisfy your cravings without weighing you down. Each forkful bursts with flavor, protein, and just enough decadence to make it feel like a special treat—making it a staple at my dinner table and, soon, yours too!

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta comes together with just a handful of simple ingredients, each playing an important role in building bold layers of flavor and a luscious, creamy texture. Don’t skip on any—each one helps transform humble staples into a mouthwatering, well-rounded meal.

8 oz penne pasta: I love penne for its satisfying bite and its ability to soak up every drop of the savory sauce.
1 lb lean ground beef: Opt for a lean blend for rich flavor and plenty of protein without excess grease.
1 medium onion, chopped: Sweet and aromatic, onion forms the essential flavor base for the beef mixture.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the sauce with warmth and depth; don’t skimp here!
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices): The tomatoes contribute brightness, moisture, and a subtle tartness that balances the richness of the meat.
1 cup low-sodium beef broth: This brings extra juiciness and beefy flavor without overwhelming the dish.
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: The secret to a creamy, protein-packed sauce with a delightful tang.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Salty, nutty Parmesan helps thicken the sauce and delivers that irresistible umami boost.
1 tbsp Italian seasoning: This all-in-one blend of herbs makes seasoning a breeze.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing every other flavor to life—don’t be shy with these!
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving adds color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Olive oil (for cooking): Just a drizzle helps sauté the onions and garlic to sweet perfection.

How to Make High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—tender but still with a little bite. Drain the pasta well and set it aside; it’ll be reunited with the luscious beef and sauce very soon.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat a small drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, letting them sizzle until fragrant and golden. This is where the flavor journey really begins! Add the lean ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon and cooking until it’s no longer pink. At this stage, your kitchen will already smell delicious.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

With the beef perfectly browned, stir in the diced tomatoes (juices and all), low-sodium beef broth, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Season generously with salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for several minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly into a dreamy, creamy sauce that clings to the beef. The Greek yogurt makes it extra creamy while boosting the protein content—a win-win!

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Add the drained penne pasta to the beefy, creamy sauce, tossing well so that every piece of pasta is coated in flavor. Don’t be shy—get in there and mix it up until the High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta looks irresistibly inviting and everything is piping hot.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Transfer your finished pasta to plates or bowls, and top with a generous sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley. The bright herbs not only look beautiful but also add a refreshing pop to the dish. Serve immediately while it’s creamy and steaming—trust me, this is one meal everyone rushes to the table for.

How to Serve High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

Garnishes

Give your High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta that finishing chef’s touch with a shower of freshly chopped basil or parsley. If you’re feeling fancy, extra Parmesan or a crack of fresh black pepper never hurt either. These little touches heighten the flavors and make the dish feel truly special.

Side Dishes

This pasta is bold and hearty on its own, but a side salad with crisp greens, tomatoes, and a sharp vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. A slice of warm, crusty bread is also a welcome addition for soaking up any extra sauce—no shame in that!

Creative Ways to Present

I love serving this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta family-style in a big, shallow bowl—it looks abundant and inviting, so everyone can help themselves. For a dinner party spin, try portioning it into individual ramekins, topping with a little more Parmesan, and running under the broiler for a golden, bubbly finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors meld and deepen overnight, so it’s even more delicious the next day. Just be sure everything is completely cooled before sealing to keep it fresh.

Freezing

This dish freezes surprisingly well! Portion cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top, and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen up the sauce, then warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring often. The microwave works in a pinch, just use lower power and stir halfway through to avoid any dry spots.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any short pasta shape with good surface area, like rigatoni or fusilli, works great in this recipe and soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, try sour cream or plain skyr for a similar creamy tang and protein boost. Just make sure whichever you choose is unsweetened and unflavored for the best results.

Is this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s fantastic for meal prep! Portion into containers and refrigerate—just add a splash of broth when reheating to keep things nice and saucy.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply swap the penne for your favorite gluten-free pasta and make sure your beef broth and Italian seasoning are certified gluten-free. Everything else remains the same, so you won’t lose any flavor or comfort!

How can I increase the vegetables in this dish?

Feel free to add diced bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or even mushrooms when sautéing the onions and garlic. They blend seamlessly and give your High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta extra color, nutrients, and flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing like sharing a dish that’s both nourishing and outrageously tasty, and this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta really delivers on both fronts. I hope you gather your favorite people and give this recipe a spin—you might just find yourself making it on repeat!

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 8 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in a satisfying and protein-packed creamy beef pasta that’s perfect for those busy weeknights. This recipe combines tender penne pasta with a savory beef mixture in a creamy sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Instructions

Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook Beef Mixture: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for a few minutes.
Combine Pasta and Beef Mixture: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef mixture. Toss until well combined.
Serve: Serve the creamy beef pasta garnished with fresh basil or parsley.