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High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

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This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a quick, hearty, and delicious weeknight dinner packed with lean beef, creamy sauce, and tender pasta. It’s rich, comforting, and balanced with extra protein from Greek yogurt and cheese for a meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 7 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 12 oz (≈ 340 g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite)
  • 1 lb (≈ 450 g) lean ground beef (85–90% lean or higher)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth (low sodium)
  • 1 cup milk (or protein milk substitute)
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: spinach, peas, mushrooms, or chopped bell pepper
  • Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
  2. Brown the beef and aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in tomato paste, then pour in beef broth and simmer for a few minutes.
  3. Make it creamy and finish the pasta: Lower heat and whisk in milk and Greek yogurt (or cream cheese) until smooth and creamy. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add cooked pasta and toss until coated. Fold in shredded cheese and any optional veggies. Adjust consistency with pasta water if needed. Garnish with parsley or basil and serve warm.

Notes

  • Keep the heat low when adding dairy to prevent curdling.
  • Use protein or whole-wheat pasta for extra nutrients.
  • Add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for more color and texture.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
  • Freeze leftovers (without delicate veggies) for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://allcookedup.com/high-protein-creamy-beef-pasta/