If you’re looking for a hearty dinner that balances comfort with nutrition, this High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta checks all the boxes. It’s the kind of meal that makes your kitchen smell amazing, satisfies even the hungriest teenager at the table, and sneaks in a little extra protein without feeling “health food-y.”
Back in my Texas farm days, pasta night was always a treat—we didn’t need fancy ingredients, just something warm, filling, and shared around a crowded table. These days in New York, with three kids who can out-eat me any day of the week, this recipe has become one of my weeknight go-to’s. It’s fast, budget-friendly, and most importantly: it’s loved.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
- Protein-packed: Over 35 grams of protein per serving, thanks to lean ground beef and Greek yogurt.
- Creamy without the guilt: The yogurt gives you that luscious texture without heavy cream.
- Quick and easy: On the table in about 30 minutes.
- Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will be twirling their forks with this one.
- Budget-wise: Simple pantry staples turn into something special.
What Does High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Taste Like?
Think of it as your favorite Italian-inspired comfort food, but lighter. The beef adds richness, the tomatoes bring a tangy balance, and the Greek yogurt sneaks in creaminess with a little tang. The Parmesan finishes things off with that irresistible savory kick. It’s cozy without being heavy—perfect for when you want a meal that comforts but still feels nourishing.
Ingredients You’ll Need for High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
One of the best parts about making High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is that it doesn’t call for fancy or hard-to-find items. These are everyday ingredients you probably already have in your fridge and pantry—but when they come together, they create something that feels like a restaurant-worthy comfort dish.
Here’s what you’ll want to gather before you get cooking:
- Lean ground beef (1 lb, 90% lean or higher): The backbone of this recipe. Using lean beef keeps the dish lighter without losing that deep, savory flavor. This is also where much of the protein comes from, making this pasta hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest family members.
- Penne pasta (8 oz): Penne is my go-to for creamy sauces because those little ridges grab every bit of flavor. You could use rigatoni, rotini, or even bowties, but penne really makes the creamy beef sauce cling in the most delicious way.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds sweetness and depth to balance the richness of the beef and dairy. Cooking it down until it’s soft is the secret to building flavor.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Pasta without garlic? Not in my house. Garlic adds warmth and that classic aroma that tells everyone dinner is ready.
- Canned diced tomatoes (15 oz, with juices): The acidity here brightens up the creamy sauce and keeps it from feeling too heavy. The little chunks of tomato add texture, too.
- Low-sodium beef broth (1 cup): This ties everything together, making the sauce rich and savory without being overly salty. It’s the kind of background flavor that you notice only when it’s missing.
- Italian seasoning (1 tbsp): A classic blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. It’s like a little sprinkle of Italy in your pan.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: These aren’t just “seasonings”—they’re the magic that makes every other ingredient shine. Adjust as you go and trust your taste buds.
- Plain Greek yogurt (½ cup): This is where the “creamy” in High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta comes from. Greek yogurt adds tang, creaminess, and an extra punch of protein without the heaviness of cream. Stir it in off the heat to keep it silky smooth.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Salty, nutty, and the perfect finishing touch. Parmesan thickens the sauce slightly while giving it that restaurant-style finish.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): For sautéing your aromatics and browning the beef. Use a good-quality olive oil if you can—you’ll taste the difference.
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness that balances out the richness of the sauce.
If you’re already drooling over this ingredient list, you’ll definitely want to check out my Crockpot Beef Stroganoff Recipe. It uses a similar creamy-meets-hearty formula but in the slow cooker—perfect for days when you want dinner ready the moment you walk through the door.
How to Make High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta (Step by Step)
One of the things I love about High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is that it’s a full meal you can pull together in about 30 minutes without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Every step adds a layer of flavor, so don’t rush it—think of this recipe as part cooking, part therapy.
Here’s your step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start with a large pot of salted water. I always say pasta water should “taste like the sea”—that salt doesn’t just season the water, it seasons the pasta from the inside out. Once the water is at a rolling boil, add the penne pasta. Cook until it’s al dente, usually about 9–11 minutes. Drain but don’t rinse—those starchy surfaces help the creamy beef sauce cling perfectly.
Pro Tip: Save about half a cup of pasta water before draining. If your sauce feels too thick later, a splash of that starchy water will loosen it beautifully.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and break it apart with a spatula or wooden spoon. Let it sizzle until it’s no longer pink—about 6–8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep your sauce light but still full of flavor.
This is where your High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta gets its hearty, protein-packed base.
Step 3: Cook the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the browned beef and cook until it softens and turns translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook just 30 seconds more. You want it fragrant, not burnt. This combo is the “secret handshake” of almost every comforting pasta dish.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with all their juices, followed by the beef broth. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, then season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir well and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce bubble away for 5–7 minutes, thickening slightly as the flavors meld together.
This step is like letting your sauce have a little chat—every ingredient gets to know the others before you bring in the creamy finish.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
Now for the game-changer. Remove the skillet from heat (this is important, otherwise the yogurt may curdle). Stir in the Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until the sauce turns silky and creamy. Taste, then adjust with more salt or pepper if needed.
Greek yogurt isn’t just adding creaminess—it’s boosting the protein and giving your High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta that signature tangy note.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss the drained penne pasta straight into the skillet. Stir until every piece is coated in that creamy beef sauce. If it feels too thick, add a splash of that reserved pasta water you saved earlier. Let everything warm together for 1–2 minutes over low heat.
This is the moment when pasta and sauce become one happy family.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Spoon generous portions into bowls and finish with fresh basil or parsley. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan never hurt, either. Serve immediately while it’s hot and creamy.
Pair it with garlic bread or a simple salad and you’ve got a complete dinner that’s as comforting as it is nourishing.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
- Don’t overcook the pasta. Al dente gives you the best bite.
- Add yogurt off the heat. Otherwise, it may curdle.
- Want it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic.
- Make it cheesy. Stir in shredded mozzarella for extra indulgence.
- Meal prep tip: Cook the beef mixture ahead of time; just reheat and stir in yogurt before serving.
Storage
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Pasta doesn’t freeze perfectly, but the sauce does. Freeze sauce up to 2 months and cook fresh pasta when ready.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! It’ll be lighter but still delicious.
What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?
Penne is my favorite, but rotini or rigatoni also hold sauce well.
Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Absolutely—more fiber, still tasty.
What sides go best with this dish?
Garlic bread, roasted veggies, or a crisp side salad pair beautifully.
Conclusion
This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is proof that comfort food can also be nourishing. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights, yet cozy enough to serve on a Sunday with family gathered around the table. If you’re after something satisfying that doesn’t weigh you down, give this recipe a try—you may just find it becomes your new go-to.
And if creamy pastas make your heart happy, don’t miss my Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta for another easy weeknight win.
Follow us on Pinterest for weekly slow cooker inspiration, or join the conversation over on our Facebook page where fellow food lovers share their favorite comfort meals.
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High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe – Quick, Creamy & Protein-Packed
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A high-protein, creamy beef pasta dish made with lean ground beef, Greek yogurt, and Parmesan, all tossed with penne pasta in a savory tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients
1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
8 oz penne pasta
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
1 cup low-sodium beef broth
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente (9–11 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart. Cook for 6–8 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Add chopped onion to the beef and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds more until fragrant.
4. Pour in diced tomatoes with juices and beef broth. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook for 5–7 minutes.
5. Remove skillet from heat and stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with sauce. Warm gently over low heat for 1–2 minutes if needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil or parsley.
Notes
Use lean beef and Greek yogurt for a high-protein, balanced meal.
Add Greek yogurt off heat to avoid curdling and maintain creaminess.
Pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 475
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta, high protein, pasta, creamy beef, Greek yogurt
