Looking for a protein-rich meal that satisfies your cravings without spending hours in the kitchen? This Creamy, High-Protein Beef Pasta recipe is your new go-to for busy weeknights, active lifestyles, and meal prep success. With lean ground beef, Greek yogurt, and Parmesan cheese, this dish offers a flavorful and creamy texture while supporting your nutrition goals.
Whether you’re focused on high-protein meals, easy dinner ideas, or macro-friendly recipes, this pasta checks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are numerous pasta recipes available, but this one stands out in terms of flavor, protein, and convenience. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your weekly rotation:
✅ High Protein: Using lean ground beef and Greek yogurt boosts the protein content, helping you hit your daily goals while keeping you full and satisfied.
✅ Creamy Without The Guilt: Instead of heavy cream or butter, this recipe uses Greek yogurt for a creamy texture with fewer calories and more nutrients.
✅ Quick To Prepare: From start to finish, this meal takes just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want real food fast.
✅ Meal Prep-Friendly: Make a batch, portion it out, and enjoy high-protein lunches or dinners throughout the week.
✅ Customizable & Family-Friendly: Easily switch the pasta or protein, adjust the seasoning, and let the whole family enjoy a meal that’s both delicious and nutritious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps it simple with wholesome, protein-rich ingredients you already have in your pantry or fridge.
Main Ingredients
- Penne pasta – The ideal pasta shape for absorbing the creamy sauce. Swap with whole wheat or gluten-free options as needed.
- Lean ground beef – Use 90% lean or higher for a great balance of flavor and protein without too much fat.
- Onion and garlic – Essential aromatics that bring depth to the beef and sauce.
- Diced tomatoes – Adds acidity and freshness to balance the creaminess.
For the Sauce
- Low-sodium beef broth – Boosts the savory flavor while keeping sodium in check.
- Plain Greek yogurt – The creamy base that adds protein and richness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese – Brings a salty, nutty flavor that ties the whole dish together.
- Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that adds traditional flavor without needing a full spice rack.
- Salt and pepper – Season to taste and enhance the overall balance of the dish.
To Finish
- Olive oil – For sautéing your aromatics and beef.
- Fresh basil or parsley – An optional garnish that adds color, freshness, and a final layer of flavor.
Creamy High-Protein Beef Pasta
Equipment
- Skillet or large sauté pan
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta, Whole wheat or gluten-free if preferred
- 1 lb lean ground beef, 90% lean or higher recommended
- 1 small onion, Chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, Minced
- 14.5 oz diced tomatoes, 1 standard can
- 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth,
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, Use 2% or whole for creaminess
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, Freshly grated for best flavor
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning, to taste
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil, For sautéing
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, Chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, then add ground beef. Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined and allow to simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Notes
- Nutrition is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Swap penne with any short pasta, such as rigatoni or rotini.
- For additional protein, stir in cooked lentils or white beans.
- If reheating leftovers, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
- This recipe works well with ground turkey or chicken as an alternative to beef.
- Want more spice? Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Nutrition
Conclusion
If you’re on the hunt for a satisfying, creamy pasta dish that supports your high-protein lifestyle, this Creamy High-Protein Beef Pasta is a must-try. It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and packed with flavor that the whole family will love.
Perfect for meal preppers, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone looking to eat better without sacrificing taste, this recipe proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland or complicated.
Try it tonight and see why it’s quickly becoming a reader favorite here at BestProteinRecipes.com.
Tried this Creamy High-Protein Beef Pasta? We’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below, share your tips or tweaks, and don’t forget to rate the recipe. Your feedback helps us (and other readers) make every meal even better.