This creamy beef pasta is packed with protein and tastes amazing! With tender beef and a rich sauce, it makes for a comforting meal that’s hard to resist.
I love twirling the pasta around my fork and getting a mouthful of that creamy goodness. It’s a family favorite, especially when I’m in the mood for something hearty!
Plus, this recipe comes together quickly, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Just cook the beef, whip up the sauce, and mix it all with pasta—easy peasy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef (93% lean) is perfect for this recipe. If you want a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead. They will give a slightly different flavor but keep it light.
Pasta: Whole wheat or protein-enriched pasta adds fiber and protein. If you’re gluten-free, try using gluten-free pasta made from brown rice or chickpeas. It works great too!
Greek Yogurt: This is what makes the sauce creamy while adding protein. If you prefer a non-dairy option, use coconut yogurt or an unsweetened plant-based yogurt to achieve a similar creaminess.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty kick to the sauce. You can use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative, which will also add a nice cheesy flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta just right is important for the best texture. Here’s how to make sure it’s al dente:
- Always use plenty of salted water; it should taste like the sea!
- Follow the package instructions but taste it a minute or two before the time is up.
- Drain it right when it’s tender, but still a bit firm to bite—don’t overcook!
- Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining; it helps adjust your sauce consistency later.
This should help you make a delicious high-protein creamy beef pasta that you and your family will love!
High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Meat:
- 12 oz (340 g) lean ground beef (93% lean or higher)
- 8 oz (225 g) whole wheat or protein-enriched pasta (e.g., penne, rigatoni)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup low-fat Greek yogurt (for creaminess and protein)
- 1/2 cup low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
For Seasoning:
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This deliciously creamy beef pasta recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. In no time, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (still firm to the bite). Remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Drain it, then set it aside.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s nice and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until fragrant.
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Next, toss in the lean ground beef. Cook it while breaking it up with a spoon until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take around 6-8 minutes. Don’t forget to season it with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs for that extra flavor!
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now, stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 1-2 minutes to enhance the flavor. Reduce the heat to low and gently mix in the Greek yogurt, milk, and Parmesan cheese until you have a smooth, creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, feel free to add reserved pasta water a little bit at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Combine the Pasta with the Sauce:
Once the sauce is ready, add the drained pasta into the skillet and give it a good toss to ensure every piece is coated in that delicious creamy sauce.
6. Final Touches and Serve:
Before serving, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if you like.
Enjoy your high-protein creamy beef pasta! It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for a hearty meal.
FAQ for High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a lean alternative. Just note that the flavor will be slightly different, but it will still create a delicious creamy sauce!
What If I Don’t Have Greek Yogurt?
No worries! If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with sour cream or a non-dairy yogurt alternative. Just make sure it’s plain and unsweetened for the best results.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce, or use the microwave in short intervals.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with lentils or your favorite meat substitute, like crumbled tofu or tempeh, and follow the same cooking instructions for a protein-packed dish.