High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a rich and satisfying dish that combines tender beef, a creamy sauce, and pasta for a hearty meal. Packed with protein and flavor, this dish is perfect for anyone looking for a comforting, protein-packed meal. The creamy sauce made with Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese adds richness and tang, making it a healthier alternative to traditional heavy cream-based sauces. Whether you’re fueling up after a workout or simply craving a delicious pasta dish, this recipe is sure to hit the spot!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The lean beef provides a good source of protein, while the creamy sauce made from Greek yogurt and Parmesan adds richness without excess fat. The pasta is coated with a flavorful sauce that’s both creamy and tangy, giving you a comforting yet nutritious meal. Plus, it’s quick to make, making it an ideal weeknight dinner for anyone looking for something hearty, satisfying, and protein-packed.

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

Ingredients

12 oz whole wheat or high-protein pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite type)
1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
1/2 cup Greek yogurt (non-fat or full-fat)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water.
Cook the beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes). Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Sauté the onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Make the sauce: Pour in the beef broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Serve: Divide the creamy beef pasta between plates and garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add veggies: Add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
Low-carb version: Use zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles instead of pasta to reduce the carbs and make the dish even lighter.
Spicy version: Add more red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a spicier version of the dish.
Cheese variations: Swap the Parmesan for Romano, mozzarella, or Asiago cheese for a different flavor profile.
Ground turkey or chicken: If you prefer a leaner option, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.

Storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: This pasta freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it’s become too thick.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even ground lamb for a different flavor profile.

2. Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Greek yogurt is preferred for its thicker texture and higher protein content, but you can use regular yogurt if that’s what you have on hand. Just note that the sauce may be a bit thinner.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free by using a dairy-free yogurt alternative and omitting the Parmesan cheese. There are also dairy-free Parmesan cheese alternatives available in stores.

4. How can I make the sauce even creamier?

For an even creamier sauce, you can add a little more Greek yogurt or mix in a small amount of cream cheese to enrich the texture.

5. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta, whole wheat pasta, or any other type of pasta you prefer. Adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta used.

6. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, kale, mushrooms, or bell peppers can add extra nutrients and flavor. Sauté them along with the onions and garlic for best results.

7. How do I make the sauce spicier?

If you like your pasta with a kick, you can add extra red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or even some diced jalapeños to the sauce for more heat.

8. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to swap the Parmesan cheese for other hard cheeses like Romano or Pecorino, or even use mozzarella for a different texture and flavor.

9. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth is gluten-free as well.

10. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

To prevent curdling, make sure the heat is not too high when adding the yogurt. Stir continuously and avoid boiling the sauce once the yogurt is added.

Conclusion

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a satisfying and delicious dish that provides all the rich, creamy flavors you love without the guilt. The lean beef and Greek yogurt-based sauce offer a protein-packed meal that’s both hearty and nutritious. Whether you’re following a high-protein diet or simply looking for a comforting meal, this pasta dish is sure to become a family favorite. Customize it with vegetables, spices, or different cheeses to suit your tastes, and enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal in no time!