If you’re anything like me, weeknight dinners can often feel like a race against the clock. Life gets busy, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where my High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta comes in—it’s not just delicious, but it’s also a hearty, satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes! This creamy beef pasta combines lean ground beef with tangy Greek yogurt and parmesan cheese, creating a dish that’s packed with flavor and protein. Trust me; it’s perfect for the whole family, even those picky eaters!
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights when you’re juggling kids’ activities, work, and everything in between. It’s also budget-friendly, relying on staple ingredients you likely have on hand. Plus, this creamy pasta dish is a nutritious alternative to traditional heavy pasta meals, thanks to the lean beef and Greek yogurt.
“This creamy beef pasta is a lifesaver on busy nights! It’s packed with flavor, and my kids devoured it. I love how quick and easy it is to make.”
Preparing High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe for Quick Weeknight Dinners
This dish comes together in five simple steps, making it a breeze to whip up at the end of a long day. Here’s what to expect:
- Cook the penne pasta until tender.
- Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil.
- Brown the ground beef.
- Stir in tomatoes, broth, Greek yogurt, and cheese.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the beef mixture.
With just a few steps, you’ll have a healthy, protein-packed dinner on your table.
What you’ll need
Here’s the list of ingredients you’ll want to gather before you start cooking:
- 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)
Feel free to experiment with some substitutions: For a dairy-free option, you can use a plant-based yogurt and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
Step-by-step instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, Greek yogurt, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes to combine the flavors.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef mixture. Toss everything together until well combined.
- Serve your creamy beef pasta garnished with fresh basil or parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Best ways to enjoy it
To plate your High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta, serve generous portions in deep bowls to make the meal feel cozy and comforting. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or additional Parmesan on top makes for an inviting presentation. Pair it with a light green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the pasta. A glass of red wine can also elevate your dining experience if you’re in the mood for an indulgent night.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers? No problem! You can store this creamy beef pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, it freezes beautifully—just make sure to cool it completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Helpful cooking tips
- Don’t overcook your beef. Keep an eye on it while cooking, as overcooking can lead to a tough texture. Aim for a nice brown color while ensuring it remains juicy.
- Boost the vegetables. Feel free to add in some chopped spinach or bell peppers during the cooking process for an extra splash of color and nutrition.
- Flavor boost. Consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the dish a bit of a zing.
Creative twists
Looking for a little adventure in your cooking? Here are a few variations you can experiment with:
- Herbed variations: Try adding different herbs, like fresh oregano or thyme, to change up the flavor profile.
- Cheese overload: Swap the Parmesan for mozzarella for a different cheesy experience.
- Veggie forward: Opt for ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, or go meat-free with lentils for a vegetarian option.
Common questions
How long does this dish take to cook?
It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick weeknight option.Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand! Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.How do I store leftovers safely?
Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for a longer shelf life.
This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is not only a quick and delicious meal but also a dish the whole family will enjoy. Give it a try; you might just find it becoming a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation!
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High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A quick and hearty pasta dish combining lean ground beef, Greek yogurt, and Parmesan cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.
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)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, Greek yogurt, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes to combine the flavors.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef mixture. Toss everything together until well combined.
- Serve your creamy beef pasta garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
Notes
This dish can be made dairy-free with plant-based yogurt and nutritional yeast. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg