High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a quick and delicious dish that combines hearty beef with creamy sauce and tender pasta, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Pasta and Beef
- 8 oz penne pasta You can substitute with any short pasta.
- 1 lb lean ground beef Lean ground turkey or chicken can be used as alternatives.
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices) Fresh tomatoes can also be used.
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth High-quality broth enhances flavor.
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt Can substitute with sour cream or heavy cream.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning Can be substituted with dried oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish Adds freshness to the dish.
- Olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Tip: Reserve a cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce later if needed.
Sautéing
- In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Browning the Beef
- Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Tip: Drain excess fat if there’s too much in the pan for a leaner meal.
Combining Ingredients
- Stir in the can of diced tomatoes with juices, low-sodium beef broth, plain Greek yogurt, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Extra Tip: Keep the mixture on low heat while stirring to help incorporate the yogurt smoothly.
Simmering
- Let the mixture simmer for at least 5 minutes until everything is heated through and bubbly.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the beef mixture, tossing until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Serving
- Transfer to serving plates and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
- Presentation Tip: A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top can make it visually appealing.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.