Let’s be honest, weeknights can feel like a marathon. You’re juggling work, errands, maybe kids’ activities, and then it hits you: “What’s for dinner?” That’s where this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta swoops in like a weeknight superhero. It’s hearty enough to keep you full, quick enough to make in 30 minutes, and secretly packed with protein thanks to lean beef and Greek yogurt.
This recipe isn’t just about convenience; it’s about comfort without compromise. Think creamy pasta that tastes indulgent, yet fuels you with the protein your body actually needs. Whether you’re feeding the family, meal-prepping lunches, or just treating yourself after a long day, this one checks all the boxes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 oz penne pasta (whole wheat or regular)
- 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10 preferred)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Brown the beef. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant, then stir in ground beef. Cook until no longer pink.
- Build the sauce. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, Greek yogurt, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Stir until creamy and well combined. Let simmer for 5–7 minutes to thicken.
- Toss it all together. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and mix until every piece is coated in sauce.
- Finish and serve. Taste, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot.
Tips & Tricks for Best Results
- Cook pasta just shy of done, it will finish cooking in the sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for richer flavor (store-bought tends to be dry).
- Stir Greek yogurt in off the heat to prevent curdling.
- Want extra creaminess? Add a splash of half-and-half or milk.
FAQ Tip
How do I avoid dry pasta when reheating?
Add a splash of water or broth before microwaving, it revives the sauce beautifully.
Variations & Substitutions
- Protein swaps: Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work.
- Dairy-free: Use coconut yogurt + nutritional yeast instead of Greek yogurt and Parmesan.
- Low-carb: Swap penne for zucchini noodles or chickpea pasta.
- Veggie boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for more nutrients.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, replace the beef with lentils or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free version.
Nutrition Breakdown & High-Protein Benefits
This isn’t just comfort food, it’s macro-friendly fuel:
- Calories: ~460
- Protein: ~32g
- Carbs: ~45g
- Fat: ~14g
- Fiber: ~6g
The secret? Lean beef + Greek yogurt team up for double the protein punch without overloading on fat. This makes the pasta ideal if you’re aiming to stay fuller for longer, support muscle recovery, or just keep late-night snacking in check.
Meal Prep, Storage & Reheating Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Technically yes, but sauce texture may change. If freezing, thaw overnight and reheat gently on stovetop.
- Reheat: Microwave with a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess.
Meal-prep hack: Divide into 4 single-serve containers and add a side of steamed veggies for balanced lunches.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic combo: Garlic bread + side Caesar salad
- Light option: Pair with a simple cucumber and tomato salad
- Drink pairing: A glass of Chianti, or sparkling water with lemon for non-alcoholic freshness
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek?
You can, but the sauce will be thinner. Stick to Greek for best creaminess.
Can I make this spicier?
Yes, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the beef.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely. You can even reduce the garlic/onion for milder flavor.
There’s something deeply satisfying about a pasta dish that feels indulgent but secretly fits your nutrition goals. This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta strikes that balance rich, creamy, comforting, yet quick enough for a Tuesday night after work.
Next time dinner stress hits, remember this recipe is your shortcut to a hearty, protein-packed meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Try it, tweak it to your taste, and let it become one of those weeknight regulars you can always rely on.
High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta (whole wheat or regular)
- 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10 preferred)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Brown the beef. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant, then stir in ground beef. Cook until no longer pink.
- Build the sauce. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, Greek yogurt, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Stir until creamy and well combined. Let simmer for 5–7 minutes to thicken.
- Toss it all together. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and mix until every piece is coated in sauce.
- Finish and serve. Taste, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
- Storage Tip: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth to bring the sauce back to life.
- Customizations: Swap beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based protein; make it gluten-free with chickpea or lentil pasta.
- Family-Friendly: Mild flavors make it kid-approved, but you can easily kick up the spice with red pepper flakes.