Description
This High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta recipe blends lean ground beef with protein-rich pasta and a velvety, savory sauce to create a nutritious and satisfying meal. Ideal for busy weeknights or post-workout dinners, it offers a perfect balance of protein and flavor in a simple, quick-to-make dish.
Ingredients
Meat and Protein
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 12 oz protein pasta or whole wheat pasta
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Dairy
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Prepare the protein or whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté Onion: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, approximately 3 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Brown Ground Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until fully browned and no longer pink, ensuring it’s crumbled evenly.
- Season Meat: Mix in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine the flavors.
- Simmer with Broth: Pour in low-sodium beef broth and allow the mixture to simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, reducing slightly and enhancing flavor.
- Add Creamy Elements: Reduce heat to low and gently stir in the plain Greek yogurt and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce turns creamy and smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet, tossing well to coat all noodles evenly with the creamy beef sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Greek yogurt adds creaminess and boosts protein content without heavy cream.
- Include vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to increase fiber and nutrient density.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
