This creamy beef pasta recipe is a wonderful way to bring the family together at dinnertime. With a hefty 29 grams of protein per serving and ready in just about 30 minutes, it’s the ultimate comfort dish for busy weeknights. Imagine the warm, inviting aroma of sautéed garlic and onions filling your kitchen while you whip up this dish, bringing smiles to the faces around your table.
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High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty creamy beef pasta dish packed with protein, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
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 a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
- Toss in the ground beef, cooking until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for a few minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Spoon the creamy beef pasta onto plates and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish can be frozen for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You know those evenings when everyone is racing through the door with stories to share but hunger is setting in? This creamy beef pasta is the answer! It’s hearty, delicious, and brings a sense of home with every bite. My kids look forward to diving into their bowls, and the best part is, it’s both satisfying and nutritious. I often make it when the weather turns chilly, and the smell that fills the kitchen is like a warm hug; it beckons everyone to gather and share their day.
Let’s Cook It Together
Cooking this creamy beef pasta is as easy as pie. You’ll see how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for those hurried weeknights.
Gather These Ingredients
To make this comforting meal, you’ll need:
- 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)
Step-by-Step Directions
Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent.
Brown the Beef: Toss in the ground beef, cooking until it’s well browned and cooked through. This is where the magic starts to happen!
Mix Ingredients: Once the beef is browned, stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow this to simmer for a few minutes, letting all the flavors meld together.
Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in that lovely creamy sauce.
Serve: Spoon the creamy beef pasta onto plates and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Nutrition Values
- Serving size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 29g
- Carbs: 42g
- Fat: 17g
- Fiber: 3g
Packed with protein and fiber, this recipe keeps you full longer without feeling heavy.
Best Ways to Serve It
There’s something truly comforting about a big bowl of creamy beef pasta, especially when you throw on some crispy garlic bread on the side. Pair it with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. A glass of your favorite red wine can elevate the whole dining experience, making it a perfect end to a busy day. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an easy meal for friends, this dish fits right in.
Keeping It Fresh
Leftovers are a blessing with this creamy beef pasta! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to meal prep, consider making a double batch; it freezes beautifully. When reheating, simply warm it on low heat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if it seems a bit dry.
Pro Tips from My Kitchen
- Pre-cook the pasta: If your week is particularly busy, consider cooking the pasta in advance and storing it in the fridge. It saves time on those hectic nights!
- Customize the sauce: Don’t hesitate to add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for an extra boost of nutrition.
- Beef alternatives: Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option, and you can even make it with plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist.
- Texture perfection: For an even creamier sauce, know that stirring in a little more Greek yogurt just before serving can work wonders.
- Season to taste: Adjust the level of Italian seasoning based on your family’s preference; some like it herby, while others prefer milder flavors.
Creative Twists to Try
Feeling adventurous? You can switch up the flavors by adding a splash of cream or a dollop of pesto for a refreshing fusion. If you enjoy a little spice, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños. For a tangier taste, consider stirring in a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar at the end for a delightful twist that brightens the flavor!
FAQs
Can I freeze this recipe?
Absolutely! This creamy beef pasta freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It should stay fresh for about three months in the freezer.
What’s the best substitute for Greek yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, sour cream or cottage cheese can be a great alternative—each will add its own unique flavor and creaminess to the dish.
How long will this stay fresh?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it for longer, pop it in the freezer, and it will last for about three months.
Can I double the recipe for meal prep?
Definitely! Doubling the recipe is a great way to ensure you have enough for your family and some leftovers for lunches during the week. Just be sure you have a large enough pot and skillet to accommodate everything.
So, why wait? Bring the family together around the table tonight with this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta. It’s the kind of dish that nourishes both the body and soul, creating memories with every bite. Enjoy!