Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta is the perfect comfort food that's both hearty and satisfying. This recipe features tender ground beef and a rich, creamy sauce coating your favorite pasta for a quick homemade meal. It’s easy to make with pantry staples and ready in under 40 minutes – ideal for busy weeknights. Pair it with my Low Carb BBQ Chicken Thighs for a protein-packed dinner rotation.
Why You'll Love Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta - Easy & Delicious Weeknight Dinner
Try this easy Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta recipe! Perfect for quick weeknight dinners with rich flavor and high protein goodness in every bite.
- High in protein to keep you full and fueled.
- Creamy and comforting texture that pleases all ages.
- Quick and easy to make with common pantry ingredients.
- Perfect for meal prep and delicious leftovers.
Ingredients for Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta - Easy & Delicious Weeknight Dinner
Ground beef: Use 90% lean for less fat but still juicy; turkey or chicken can substitute for lower fat.Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and extra protein; sour cream works but reduces protein.
- Ground beef: Use 90% lean for less fat but still juicy; turkey or chicken can substitute for lower fat.
- Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and extra protein; sour cream works but reduces protein.
Ingredient Note: Full measurements for Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta - Easy & Delicious Weeknight Dinner are listed in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta - Easy & Delicious Weeknight Dinner
Step 1 — Prep & Preheat
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
Sauté aromatics and beef: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking up meat.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Make the creamy sauce: Pour in beef broth and stir, letting it simmer and reduce slightly (about 5 minutes). Lower heat and stir in Greek yogurt until well combined and creamy. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
Expert Tips for Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta - Easy & Delicious Weeknight Dinner
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat but keep the dish juicy.
- Do not boil the sauce after adding Greek yogurt to avoid curdling.
- Let the pasta absorb the sauce for a few minutes off heat for better flavor.
Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta - Easy & Delicious Weeknight Dinner
Try this easy Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta recipe! Perfect for quick weeknight dinners with rich flavor and high protein goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini works best)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (for creaminess and extra protein)
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
How to Make Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics and beef: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking up meat.
- Make the creamy sauce: Pour in beef broth and stir, letting it simmer and reduce slightly (about 5 minutes). Lower heat and stir in Greek yogurt until well combined and creamy. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until pasta is well coated. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top, cover, and let melt for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs and optional Parmesan before serving.
Nutrition (per serving)
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended (texture changes).
- Serve/Reheat: Best chilled or at room temperature.
Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta - Easy & Delicious Weeknight Dinner FAQs
Yes! You can prepare the dish and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Sour cream or plain cream cheese can be used but Greek yogurt adds more protein and tang.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Overheating after adding yogurt can cause curdling. Stir gently and avoid boiling after adding dairy.
You Might Also Like
Before You Go
If you try this Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta - Easy & Delicious Weeknight Dinner, I'd love for you to leave a rating or share how you customized it.