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High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

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Perfect weeknight dinner with lean beef, Greek yogurt, and Parmesan. Quick recipe ready in under 30 minutes with 35g+ protein per serving.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside without rinsing.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up with spatula. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Stir in chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add diced tomatoes with juices, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes allowing flavors to meld and sauce to reduce slightly.
  5. Remove skillet from heat. Stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until sauce turns creamy and smooth.
  6. Add drained pasta to skillet with sauce. Toss gently to coat. Warm over low heat for 1-2 minutes if needed. Plate and garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Don’t rinse pasta after cooking – the starchy surface helps sauce cling better.
  • Always add Greek yogurt off heat to prevent curdling and maintain smooth texture.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best flavor and melting quality.
  • Save a little pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.

Nutrition