High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

This high protein creamy beef pasta is perfect for busy weeknight dinners when you want something satisfying and straightforward. It brings together familiar ingredients in a creamy sauce that feels indulgent but cooks up in under 35 minutes.

I threw this together when I needed a meal that felt like a treat but wasn’t complicated and it quickly became a dinner that my family asks for regularly.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta: cooks evenly and holds sauce well choose good quality dried pasta for best texture
• Lean ground beef: adds hearty protein keep an eye on fat content for a lean version
• Onion and garlic: build the savory flavor base fresh onions and freshly minced garlic always make a difference
• Canned diced tomatoes: bring acidity and sweetness opt for a tin with ripe tomatoes and no added salt
• Low sodium beef broth: deepens the sauce flavor use homemade broth or a trusted store brand
• Plain Greek yogurt: enriches the sauce with creaminess and protein select full fat for a richer taste or low fat to lighten it up
• Grated Parmesan cheese: introduces umami and saltiness freshly grated Parmesan delivers the best flavor
• Italian seasoning: blends herbs that complement beef pasta dishes use a good fresh herb mix or toss in fresh herbs if available
• Salt and pepper: seasoning to taste essential for bringing all flavors to life
• Olive oil for cooking: choose extra virgin olive oil for a nice flavor boost
• Fresh basil or parsley garnish: adds brightness and color use fresh herbs not dried for garnish

Instructions

Cook Pasta:

Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente meaning firm to the bite but fully cooked. Drain the pasta well and set aside so it is ready to be added later.

Cook Beef Mixture:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add the chopped onion and sauté gently for about five minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant to build a flavorful base. Add the lean ground beef breaking it up with a spoon and cook thoroughly until no pink remains and it starts browning. Stir in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices and pour in the beef broth to loosen the mixture and add depth. Reduce heat to a simmer and then add the Greek yogurt stirring carefully to create a creamy sauce without curdling. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning mixing well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce gently bubble for around five minutes to meld flavors.

Combine Pasta and Beef Mixture:

Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Toss well to ensure the sauce evenly coats the pasta strands. Cook together for an additional minute so the pasta absorbs some flavor and the sauce thickens slightly.

Serve:

Divide the creamy beef pasta among plates or bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley leaves to add a fresh aroma and vibrant color. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

One of my favorite parts of this dish is adding the Greek yogurt for creaminess It keeps the sauce rich without feeling heavy. I remember a night when I made this late after work and the smell of sautéed garlic and herbs filled the kitchen making everyone rush to the table eager to dig in.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover creamy beef pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating use a splash of water or broth in the pan and gently warm through to restore creaminess and avoid drying out. Avoid microwaving for long stretches as it can toughen the beef and pasta.

Ingredient Swaps

Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter version. You can swap penne for rigatoni or macaroni if preferred. If you do not have Greek yogurt plain sour cream or crème fraîche can also work in the sauce but may alter the flavor slightly. Fresh herbs like oregano or thyme can replace Italian seasoning to change up the taste.

Serving Ideas

Pair this creamy beef pasta with a side of roasted vegetables such as broccoli or green beans to add color and nutrients. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish nicely. Crusty garlic bread or a simple baguette helps soak up the flavorful sauce.

This recipe delivers a creamy comforting meal that is quick to make and packed with protein. Perfect for weeknight dinners that satisfy the whole family.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What pasta works best for creamy beef dishes?

Penne pasta is ideal as its ridges hold the creamy sauce well, but rigatoni or rotini also complement rich, saucy beef mixtures.

→ How can I make the beef mixture more flavorful?

Sautéing onions and garlic first builds a fragrant base, while Italian seasoning, Parmesan, and beef broth infuse depth and savory notes.

→ Why use Greek yogurt instead of cream or cheese for creaminess?

Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture with added protein and a slight tang, making the dish lighter yet still rich and smooth.

→ Can fresh herbs be substituted or omitted in this dish?

Fresh basil or parsley adds brightness and a fresh finish, but dried herbs can work as a substitute—though fresh is preferred for garnish.

→ What’s the best way to combine pasta and beef mixture?

After cooking both separately, toss the drained pasta gently in the skillet with the beef sauce to coat evenly without breaking the pasta.