Name: Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 225g penne pasta; 450g lean ground beef; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup beef broth; ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt (or cottage cheese); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella); Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Are you on the lookout for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that hits the mark both for flavor and protein content? Look no further than this Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta. With lean ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce that won’t sabotage your dietary goals, this dish is a true champion in the realm of quick and fulfilling meals. Picture this: a dinner that not only fills you up but also nourishes your body, all while staying on the healthier side of the culinary spectrum. It’s no wonder this recipe has won a permanent spot on my dinner roster!

What draws many home cooks to this recipe is its simplicity and speed. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that serves four, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prepping for the week. The combination of penne pasta and a creamy sauce gives a comforting feel, while the high protein content meets your fitness needs. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, enjoying a cozy night alone, or needing something easy for meal prep, this recipe does it all.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta

Deliciously hearty and filling, perfect for satisfying hungry bellies.
High in protein, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to enhance muscle recovery.
Quick and easy meal prep in just 30 minutes.
Versatile, with options for substitutions and variations to suit your taste.
Great for feeding the whole family or for enjoying as leftovers.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To ensure your Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta turns out perfectly, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen space effectively. Start by gathering all the ingredients needed: penne pasta, lean ground beef, olive oil, onion, garlic, tomato paste, beef broth, Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, and seasoning. Having everything at your fingertips will streamline the cooking process and save you time.

As for tools, make sure to have a large pot and a big skillet ready. The pot should be used to cook the pasta, while the skillet is necessary for browning the beef and creating that delicious creamy sauce. A colander is also handy for draining the pasta once it’s cooked. Additionally, having measuring cups and spoons will help you keep track of your ingredients accurately.

Ingredients

225g penne pasta
450g lean ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
¾ cup plain Greek yogurt (or cottage cheese)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cooking the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente perfection. This typically takes about 10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta, but be sure to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water. This starchy water will help create a smooth sauce later.

Step 2: Browning the Beef

In a spacious skillet over medium-high heat, pour in the tablespoon of olive oil. Once heated, add the lean ground beef. Cook it thoroughly until it turns a nice brown color, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess grease after the beef has finished cooking to keep the dish from becoming too oily.

Step 3: Sautéing the Aromatics

Once the beef is browned, shift it to one side of the skillet. In the cleared space, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these aromatics for about 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and release their delightful fragrances. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base for your sauce.

Step 4: Deepening the Flavor

Add the tomato paste to the skillet, stirring it into the beef and aromatics. Allow this to cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to deepen the flavors. This step will give your sauce a rich color and a more complex taste profile, which is key in a creamy dish.

Step 5: Making the Sauce

Next, pour in the beef broth, mixing everything together. Let the mixture simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This bubbling action allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Incorporating the Creaminess

Reduce the heat to low before you stir in the Greek yogurt and shredded cheese. Mix thoroughly until everything is creamy and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add your reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. This is what will make the sauce comforting and luscious.

Step 7: Combining with Pasta

Now that your sauce is perfect, add the cooked penne pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring that each piece of pasta is coated with the creamy beef sauce. It’s important to gently mix to keep the pasta intact while ensuring every bite is filled with flavor.

Step 8: Final Seasoning

Finally, taste your dish and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as necessary. Keep in mind that the cheese can add some saltiness, so season lightly at first.

Step 9: Garnishing and Serving

For an exquisite presentation, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm, and watch your family devour this hearty meal!

Variations

Protein: Swap the lean ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Vegetables: Add in some spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with different spices such as Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper, or paprika to modify the flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

This recipe can easily be doubled to serve a larger crowd. Just ensure your skillet is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.
If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with mushrooms or lentils and adjust the broth accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
A light salad with vinaigrette pairs nicely to balance the richness of the pasta.

Tips

To save time, you can use pre-cooked pasta or leftovers!
Make it even creamier by using full-fat Greek yogurt or adding a splash of heavy cream.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 480 per serving
Protein: 34g per serving
Sodium: 600mg per serving

FAQs

Can I make this pasta dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time! Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a little more broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Can I freeze Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pasta for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?

If Greek yogurt isn’t available, cottage cheese can be a fantastic substitute. Just blend it until smooth before adding to the sauce.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version of this recipe, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based protein such as lentils, mushrooms, or even crumbled tempeh. Just adapt the broth accordingly.

Conclusion

This Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone seeking a good-for-you meal without compromising on taste. Its rich flavors, quick prep time, and high protein content make it an ideal choice for busy evenings or relaxing weekends. So why not give it a shot? Experiment with your favorite ingredients and adjustments, and I’d love to hear how it turns out. Share your experiences, any modifications, or simply your thoughts in the comments below. Happy cooking!