High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta has become my go-to recipe when I need a satisfying dinner on the table fast. The combination of lean ground beef with Greek yogurt creates a creamy sauce that’s both lighter and protein-packed, delivering over 35 grams of protein per serving without the heavy cream.

I still remember the first time I made this dish on a hectic Wednesday evening when everyone was hungry and I needed something quick. The aroma of browning beef mixed with Italian herbs filled my kitchen, and within 30 minutes, I had a restaurant-quality pasta on the table. What makes this creamy beef pasta special is how the Greek yogurt creates that luscious, velvety texture while keeping the dish lighter than traditional cream-based pastas. It’s become a weekly staple in my house because it checks all the boxes: high protein, family-friendly flavors, and minimal cleanup. The best part? Leftovers taste even better the next day.

What You’ll Need for This Creamy Beef Pasta

I always use lean ground beef (90% or higher) for this creamy beef pasta because it keeps the protein high while reducing excess fat. Pro tip: don’t skip the Greek yogurt – it’s what makes this recipe special by adding creaminess and extra protein without heavy cream.

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
• 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 (I prefer freshly grated for best flavor)
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

I recommend having all your ingredients prepped before you start cooking. This creamy beef pasta comes together quickly once you begin, so mise en place makes the process smooth and stress-free.

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 9-11 minutes according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Don’t rinse the pasta because its starchy surface helps the creamy sauce cling better to every piece.

Step 2: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula into small crumbles. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally. The beef should develop a nice brown crust for maximum flavor. Drain excess fat if needed, leaving just a thin coating in the pan.

Step 3: Stir in chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant. Watch the garlic closely so it doesn’t burn.

Step 4: Add diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine everything and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to reduce slightly. You’ll notice the sauce thickening as it simmers.

Step 5: Remove the skillet from heat completely. This is crucial – stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until the sauce turns creamy and smooth. Always add Greek yogurt off heat to prevent it from curdling and becoming grainy. The residual heat will warm it through perfectly.

Step 6: Add the drained pasta into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently to coat every piece of pasta in the beefy, creamy goodness. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Warm over low heat for 1-2 minutes if needed.

Step 7: Plate the creamy beef pasta in shallow bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil, and add an extra touch of Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

Perfect Pairings for Creamy Beef Pasta

This creamy beef pasta pairs wonderfully with fresh, crisp sides that balance the richness of the dish.

Caesar Salad: The tangy dressing and crunchy romaine provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta, while adding extra nutrients and texture to your meal.

Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every bit of that delicious creamy sauce, making it a family favorite combination.

Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers alongside your creamy beef pasta for added fiber, vitamins, and colorful presentation.

Simple Side Salad: A light mixed greens salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully and adds freshness to balance the hearty pasta.

More Protein-Packed Dinner Ideas

This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta pairs perfectly with other satisfying comfort food recipes that deliver both flavor and nutrition. For another creamy, protein-rich option, try the Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli Rice, which offers a similar luscious texture with tender chicken and vegetables. The Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta provides another delicious take on creamy pasta with juicy chicken pieces.

For hearty soup options that complement this pasta beautifully as part of a larger meal spread, consider the warming Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup or the comforting One Pot Lasagna Soup. These recipes share similar Italian-inspired flavors and creamy textures that make them perfect companions for a satisfying family dinner.

How to Store Your Creamy Beef Pasta

Store leftover creamy beef pasta in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers incredibly delicious.

For reheating, I recommend adding a splash of beef broth or milk to revive the sauce’s creamy texture. You can reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently, or microwave in 60-second intervals, stirring between each burst. The key is low and slow to prevent the yogurt from separating.

Pro tip: this creamy beef pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months, though the Greek yogurt texture may change slightly upon thawing. For best results with freezing, slightly undercook the pasta initially and freeze in portion-sized containers for easy meal prep.

Common Questions About Creamy Beef Pasta

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