Oh my goodness, let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite comfort foods: High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta! This dish is the kind of meal that wraps around you like a warm hug after a long day. It combines the heartiness of ground beef with the creamy goodness of Greek yogurt, all tossed with pasta—who could resist that? Plus, it’s packed with protein, making it not just delicious but also a bit more nutritious than your average pasta dish.
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a hectic workweek when I needed something quick but also comforting. When I took that first bite, I knew I had found a meal to cherish. It’s perfect for a family dinner or even a cozy night in with your favorite Netflix series. Eating it makes me feel like I’m indulging, all while knowing I’m getting my protein fix. Alright, let’s dive into what makes this dish so scrumptious!
What’s in High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta?
Now, let’s break down the ingredients and see what makes this pasta dish special:
Penne pasta: This pasta is perfect for holding on to that creamy sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could swap it for whole wheat or even chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein.
Lean ground beef: I go for lean beef here to keep things a bit lighter but still satisfying. It’s high in protein and will fill you up without feeling too heavy.
Onion and garlic: These two are the dynamic duo of flavor! They add a rich base that makes your kitchen smell heavenly as you cook.
Diced tomatoes: They not only provide flavor but also help create a lovely sauce that mingles perfectly with the creamy elements. Don’t forget — the juices are a vital part of the dish too!
Low-sodium beef broth: This adds depth to the sauce without the extra salt. I recommend keeping a low-sodium option on hand for various recipes!
Plain Greek yogurt: This is my secret weapon in this recipe! It adds creaminess without all the fat of heavy cream and packs a protein punch.
Parmesan cheese: Because pasta without cheese is simply not an option! It adds a nice salty, nutty flavor to the sauce.
Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs takes your dish from average to oh-so-amazing!
Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings, but they help enhance all the other wonderful flavors in the dish.
Fresh basil or parsley: A sprinkle of herbs at the end brings a fresh, vibrant touch that elevates everything.
Olive oil: Perfect for sautéing without sticking and adds a touch of healthy fat.
Is High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish isn’t just a guilty pleasure; it has some real nutritional benefits:
Greek yogurt: Packed with protein and probiotics, it’s gentle on the stomach and supports gut health. It’s an excellent substitute for heavy cream!
Ground beef: A great source of protein, iron, and B vitamins. Just remember to keep it lean to reduce the saturated fat content.
Eating this dish allows you to enjoy a creamy pasta experience while getting vital nutrients. Just keep an eye on portion sizes, and you’re golden!
Ingredients List
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
– 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
– Olive oil (for cooking)
**Servings:** This recipe serves about 4 hungry people.
How to Make High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta?
Ready to whip this up? Let’s get cooking!
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions in a pot of salted boiling water. Once it’s al dente, drain and set aside.
2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions turn translucent. Trust me, your kitchen will smell fantastic at this point!
3. Add in the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring this bad boy to a simmer!
5. Once it’s all bubbling nicely, lower the heat and mix in the Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is melted and mixed beautifully.
6. Now, gently fold the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, tossing it all together until the pasta is gorgeously coated in that creamy beef sauce.
7. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Let it sit for a few minutes off the heat so it can thicken up a bit.
8. Serve warm and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for that extra flair. Dig in and enjoy every creamy bite!
Serving Suggestions and Variations: Elevated Dining
Here are some of my secrets to jazzing up this delightful pasta dish:
– **Add veggies:** Toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms while cooking the beef for extra nutrients and flavor.
– **Swap the protein:** If you’re not feeling beef, this recipe works wonders with ground turkey or chicken too.
– **Spice it up:** Add red pepper flakes for a little kick of heat if you like things spicy!
– **Make it a one-dish meal:** Serve this with a side of crusty garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.
So there you have it! This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is bound to become your family’s new go-to recipe. I can’t wait for you to try it and let me know how it turns out. Happy cooking and enjoy your creamy pasta night!
