Name: High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American/Italian Fusion
Ingredients: Penne pasta; Olive oil (for cooking); 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 can diced tomatoes (with juices); 1 cup low-sodium beef broth; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

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This high protein creamy beef pasta recipe is everything I look for in a weeknight dinner—quick to prepare, loaded with flavor, and satisfying enough to keep me full for hours. The creamy texture from Greek yogurt, the rich savory notes of lean ground beef, and the tangy depth from diced tomatoes all come together in one skillet. It’s one of my favorite ways to bring comfort food to the table fast.

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish balances comfort and nutrition. The pasta is hearty, the beef is full of protein, and the sauce is both creamy and flavorful without relying on heavy cream. It’s great when I’m short on time, craving something comforting, or need a meal that works for leftovers the next day. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what I have in the kitchen.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

penne pasta
lean ground beef
onion, chopped
garlic, minced
diced tomatoes (with juices)
low-sodium beef broth
plain Greek yogurt
grated Parmesan cheese
Italian seasoning
salt and pepper
fresh basil or parsley for garnish
olive oil (for cooking)

Directions

I cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set it aside.
In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant.
I add the ground beef and cook until browned.
Then I stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. I let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
I add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything until well coated.
To finish, I garnish the dish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, for a total of 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a busy evening.

Variations

I like to swap penne for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta when I want a lighter or allergen-friendly option.
For a vegetarian version, I substitute the beef with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based crumbles.
If I want extra vegetables, I stir in spinach, red bell peppers, or zucchini.
For more creaminess, sometimes I mix in a bit of cream cheese or mozzarella.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to reheat, I use the microwave or warm it gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to help loosen up the sauce. It reheats well and makes a great lunch the next day.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, I often switch to ground turkey when I want a leaner option. It still works great and pairs well with the creamy sauce.

Can I freeze this dish?

I can freeze it, but I notice the texture of the yogurt-based sauce changes slightly after thawing. If that doesn’t bother me, it’s a good option for make-ahead meals.

How can I make this dish spicier?

I like to add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. It really livens up the flavor.

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Regular yogurt will make the sauce thinner. If I go that route, I adjust the consistency by simmering a bit longer or adding a thickener like a touch of cornstarch.

Why isn’t the sauce creamy enough?

If the sauce turns out too runny, I make sure I simmer it long enough to reduce the liquid. Using full-fat Greek yogurt and good-quality Parmesan also helps give it that rich, creamy finish.

Conclusion

This high protein creamy beef pasta is one of those recipes I rely on when I need something hearty, quick, and comforting. Whether I’m cooking for my family or prepping meals for the week, this dish always delivers. The creamy, savory flavor hits the spot every time—and the best part is how easy it is to pull together. Give it a try and make it your own!