High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
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Lean ground beef and Greek yogurt create a creamy, protein-packed pasta that’s lighter but still incredibly satisfying.
- Author: James Carter Jr
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10 recommended)
- 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 (full-fat preferred)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Cook penne in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add garlic and sauté 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Add ground beef, breaking into crumbles. Cook 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned with no pink remaining.
- Stir in tomatoes with juices, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5-6 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Reduce heat to low. Remove from heat and stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan, mixing until smooth and creamy. Return to very low heat.
- Add cooked pasta to skillet and toss until evenly coated. Add pasta water if too thick.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs.
Notes
- Use full-fat Greek yogurt for creamiest results and to prevent curdling. Remove pan from heat before adding yogurt.
- Whole wheat pasta adds extra fiber. Any short pasta shape works well.
- Don’t let sauce boil after adding yogurt or it may separate. Keep heat low.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 2 cups)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg