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High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Quick and Easy Recipe

by on October 19, 2024

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Looking for a quick and easy meal that’s packed with protein? This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is just what you need! With simple ingredients like lean ground beef and Greek yogurt, you can whip up a delightful dish in no time. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or just want something tasty, this recipe checks all the boxes. Let’s dive into the deliciousness that awaits!

To make high protein creamy beef pasta, you need the following ingredients: - Whole grain pasta (penne or fusilli) - Lean ground beef - Greek yogurt - Grated Parmesan cheese - Garlic and onion - Olive oil - Italian seasoning - Red pepper flakes - Salt and pepper - Fresh parsley for garnish These ingredients work together to create a tasty and nutritious meal. The whole grain pasta adds fiber, while the lean ground beef packs in protein. Greek yogurt gives a creamy texture, and Parmesan cheese adds a rich flavor. Fresh garlic and onion provide a nice aroma and taste. Olive oil helps with sautéing and brings healthy fats. Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes add a kick. Finally, fresh parsley makes the dish look pretty and fresh. Using these ingredients, you can create a dish that is not only satisfying but also good for you. Enjoy gathering these items before you start cooking! {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. 2. Add 250g of whole grain pasta. 3. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. 4. Once done, drain the pasta. 5. Reserve ½ cup of pasta cooking water for later. 6. Set the pasta aside. 1. In a large skillet, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. 2. Add 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. 3. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent. 4. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. 1. Increase the heat to medium-high. 2. Add 300g of lean ground beef to the skillet. 3. Season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. 4. If you like heat, add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. 5. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking the beef apart. 6. Ensure it is browned and fully cooked. 7. Drain any excess fat if needed. 1. Lower the heat to low. 2. Stir in 1 cup of Greek yogurt and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. 3. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy. 4. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time. 5. Stir until you reach your desired consistency. 1. Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. 2. Toss gently to coat the pasta well with the sauce. 3. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning as needed. 1. Portion the creamy beef pasta into bowls or plates. 2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant touch. 3. For extra flair, add more grated Parmesan cheese on top. To boost the taste of your creamy beef pasta, consider these tips: - Seasoning Adjustments: Use fresh herbs like basil or thyme. They add bright flavors. Try adding a splash of lemon juice for a fresh twist. - Creating a Richer Sauce: Stir in a little beef broth for depth. You can also add a splash of white wine for extra richness. Perfect pasta is essential for this dish. Here’s how to cook it right: - Best Methods for Cooking Pasta: Always boil water before adding the pasta. Use a generous amount of salt in the water. This adds flavor. Cook the pasta until it's al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Check the package for exact times. - Avoiding Common Mistakes: Don't rinse the pasta after cooking. Rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce stick. Also, remember to save some pasta water. This helps adjust the sauce's texture later. Serving your dish well makes it even more appetizing. Here are some ideas: - Serving Suggestions for an Elegant Look: Use deep bowls for a cozy feel. Top each serving with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley. This adds color and freshness. You can also drizzle olive oil on top for a glossy finish. Pro Tips Cook Pasta to Al Dente: This ensures your pasta retains a firm texture, which prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce. Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier without sacrificing flavor. This also helps achieve a creamy texture without excess fat. Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, slowly add reserved pasta water. This helps you control the creaminess while incorporating more flavor from the pasta. Garnish for Freshness: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile of the dish. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra zing! {{image_4}} You can swap beef for turkey or chicken. These meats are leaner and still tasty. Ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe. Just cook them just like you would with beef. They will absorb the flavors of the sauce and spices. This change can make the dish lighter and healthier. For a meat-free version, use plant-based alternatives. Options like lentils or chickpeas add protein and flavor. You can also try a store-bought meat substitute. Just cook them in the same way as ground beef. The creamy sauce pairs well with these ingredients. This way, you can enjoy a rich meal without meat. Incorporating veggies boosts nutrition and color. Try adding spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can sauté these with the onion and garlic. This step keeps the veggies crisp and tasty. Adding vegetables also makes the dish more filling. Feel free to mix in what you have on hand. To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container. Let it cool down first. Cover it tightly to keep it fresh. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. When you want to eat it, simply heat it up in a pan or microwave. If you want to freeze the creamy beef pasta, use a freezer-safe container. Make sure to cool it completely before packing. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat it, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep it creamy. The shelf life of stored pasta and sauce depends on how you keep it. In the fridge, it lasts about three days. In the freezer, it lasts around three months. After that, the taste and texture may change. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. Yes, you can! While whole grain pasta is healthy, many options work well. You might try: - Regular pasta (like penne or fusilli) - Gluten-free pasta made from rice or corn - Whole wheat or chickpea pasta for extra nutrition Each pasta type will change the dish's taste and texture. Experiment to find your favorite! Making this creamy beef pasta dairy-free is easy. Here are some great substitutes: - Use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt - Try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor - Use a dairy-free cheese option for added creaminess These swaps keep the dish tasty while fitting a dairy-free diet. This dish goes well with many sides. Here are some ideas: - A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette - Steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for greens - Garlic bread for a hearty touch Choose sides that balance the meal and add freshness! This dish combines whole grain pasta, lean ground beef, and a creamy yogurt sauce. You learned step-by-step instructions for cooking perfect pasta and making a flavorful sauce. I shared tips on flavor, cooking, and presentation to help elevate your meal. You can also customize this recipe with different proteins or veggies. Remember to store your leftovers properly to enjoy later. This pasta is versatile and easy to make, perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy cooking and experimenting with this tasty meal!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. High Protein Content: This recipe is packed with lean ground beef and Greek yogurt, making it a fantastic source of protein for muscle recovery and overall health.
  2. Creamy and Delicious: The combination of Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, creamy sauce that elevates the pasta dish to a new level of indulgence.
  3. Quick and Easy: With a total preparation time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without the hassle.
  4. Customizable: You can easily adjust the heat with red pepper flakes or add your favorite vegetables, making this recipe versatile for any palate.

Ingredients

To make high protein creamy beef pasta, you need the following ingredients:

– Whole grain pasta (penne or fusilli)

– Lean ground beef

– Greek yogurt

– Grated Parmesan cheese

– Garlic and onion

– Olive oil

– Italian seasoning

– Red pepper flakes

– Salt and pepper

– Fresh parsley for garnish

These ingredients work together to create a tasty and nutritious meal. The whole grain pasta adds fiber, while the lean ground beef packs in protein. Greek yogurt gives a creamy texture, and Parmesan cheese adds a rich flavor. Fresh garlic and onion provide a nice aroma and taste. Olive oil helps with sautéing and brings healthy fats. Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes add a kick. Finally, fresh parsley makes the dish look pretty and fresh.

Using these ingredients, you can create a dish that is not only satisfying but also good for you. Enjoy gathering these items before you start cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add 250g of whole grain pasta.

3. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

4. Once done, drain the pasta.

5. Reserve ½ cup of pasta cooking water for later.

6. Set the pasta aside.

Sautéing Aromatics

1. In a large skillet, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves.

3. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.

4. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Cooking the Beef

1. Increase the heat to medium-high.

2. Add 300g of lean ground beef to the skillet.

3. Season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.

4. If you like heat, add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes.

5. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking the beef apart.

6. Ensure it is browned and fully cooked.

7. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Preparing the Creamy Sauce

1. Lower the heat to low.

2. Stir in 1 cup of Greek yogurt and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese.

3. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

4. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time.

5. Stir until you reach your desired consistency.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the creamy beef sauce.

2. Toss gently to coat the pasta well with the sauce.

3. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serving the Dish

1. Portion the creamy beef pasta into bowls or plates.

2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant touch.

3. For extra flair, add more grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Tips & Tricks

Enhancing Flavor

To boost the taste of your creamy beef pasta, consider these tips:

– Seasoning Adjustments: Use fresh herbs like basil or thyme. They add bright flavors. Try adding a splash of lemon juice for a fresh twist.

– Creating a Richer Sauce: Stir in a little beef broth for depth. You can also add a splash of white wine for extra richness.

Cooking Tips

Perfect pasta is essential for this dish. Here’s how to cook it right:

– Best Methods for Cooking Pasta: Always boil water before adding the pasta. Use a generous amount of salt in the water. This adds flavor. Cook the pasta until it’s al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Check the package for exact times.

– Avoiding Common Mistakes: Don’t rinse the pasta after cooking. Rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce stick. Also, remember to save some pasta water. This helps adjust the sauce’s texture later.

Presentation Tips

Serving your dish well makes it even more appetizing. Here are some ideas:

– Serving Suggestions for an Elegant Look: Use deep bowls for a cozy feel. Top each serving with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley. This adds color and freshness. You can also drizzle olive oil on top for a glossy finish.

Pro Tips

  1. Cook Pasta to Al Dente: This ensures your pasta retains a firm texture, which prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
  2. Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier without sacrificing flavor. This also helps achieve a creamy texture without excess fat.
  3. Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, slowly add reserved pasta water. This helps you control the creaminess while incorporating more flavor from the pasta.
  4. Garnish for Freshness: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile of the dish. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra zing!

Variations

Protein Substitutions

You can swap beef for turkey or chicken. These meats are leaner and still tasty. Ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe. Just cook them just like you would with beef. They will absorb the flavors of the sauce and spices. This change can make the dish lighter and healthier.

Vegetarian Option

For a meat-free version, use plant-based alternatives. Options like lentils or chickpeas add protein and flavor. You can also try a store-bought meat substitute. Just cook them in the same way as ground beef. The creamy sauce pairs well with these ingredients. This way, you can enjoy a rich meal without meat.

Adding Vegetables

Incorporating veggies boosts nutrition and color. Try adding spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can sauté these with the onion and garlic. This step keeps the veggies crisp and tasty. Adding vegetables also makes the dish more filling. Feel free to mix in what you have on hand.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Tips

To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container. Let it cool down first. Cover it tightly to keep it fresh. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. When you want to eat it, simply heat it up in a pan or microwave.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to freeze the creamy beef pasta, use a freezer-safe container. Make sure to cool it completely before packing. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep it creamy.

Shelf Life

The shelf life of stored pasta and sauce depends on how you keep it. In the fridge, it lasts about three days. In the freezer, it lasts around three months. After that, the taste and texture may change. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can! While whole grain pasta is healthy, many options work well. You might try:

– Regular pasta (like penne or fusilli)

– Gluten-free pasta made from rice or corn

– Whole wheat or chickpea pasta for extra nutrition

Each pasta type will change the dish’s taste and texture. Experiment to find your favorite!

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

Making this creamy beef pasta dairy-free is easy. Here are some great substitutes:

– Use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt

– Try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor

– Use a dairy-free cheese option for added creaminess

These swaps keep the dish tasty while fitting a dairy-free diet.

What can I pair with creamy beef pasta?

This dish goes well with many sides. Here are some ideas:

– A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette

– Steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for greens

– Garlic bread for a hearty touch

Choose sides that balance the meal and add freshness!

This dish combines whole grain pasta, lean ground beef, and a creamy yogurt sauce. You learned step-by-step instructions for cooking perfect pasta and making a flavorful sauce. I shared tips on flavor, cooking, and presentation to help elevate your meal. You can also customize this recipe with different proteins or veggies. Remember to store your leftovers properly to enjoy later. This pasta is versatile and easy to make, perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy cooking and experimenting with this tasty mea

To make high protein creamy beef pasta, you need the following ingredients: - Whole grain pasta (penne or fusilli) - Lean ground beef - Greek yogurt - Grated Parmesan cheese - Garlic and onion - Olive oil - Italian seasoning - Red pepper flakes - Salt and pepper - Fresh parsley for garnish These ingredients work together to create a tasty and nutritious meal. The whole grain pasta adds fiber, while the lean ground beef packs in protein. Greek yogurt gives a creamy texture, and Parmesan cheese adds a rich flavor. Fresh garlic and onion provide a nice aroma and taste. Olive oil helps with sautéing and brings healthy fats. Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes add a kick. Finally, fresh parsley makes the dish look pretty and fresh. Using these ingredients, you can create a dish that is not only satisfying but also good for you. Enjoy gathering these items before you start cooking! {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. 2. Add 250g of whole grain pasta. 3. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. 4. Once done, drain the pasta. 5. Reserve ½ cup of pasta cooking water for later. 6. Set the pasta aside. 1. In a large skillet, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. 2. Add 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. 3. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent. 4. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. 1. Increase the heat to medium-high. 2. Add 300g of lean ground beef to the skillet. 3. Season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. 4. If you like heat, add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. 5. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking the beef apart. 6. Ensure it is browned and fully cooked. 7. Drain any excess fat if needed. 1. Lower the heat to low. 2. Stir in 1 cup of Greek yogurt and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. 3. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy. 4. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time. 5. Stir until you reach your desired consistency. 1. Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. 2. Toss gently to coat the pasta well with the sauce. 3. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning as needed. 1. Portion the creamy beef pasta into bowls or plates. 2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant touch. 3. For extra flair, add more grated Parmesan cheese on top. To boost the taste of your creamy beef pasta, consider these tips: - Seasoning Adjustments: Use fresh herbs like basil or thyme. They add bright flavors. Try adding a splash of lemon juice for a fresh twist. - Creating a Richer Sauce: Stir in a little beef broth for depth. You can also add a splash of white wine for extra richness. Perfect pasta is essential for this dish. Here’s how to cook it right: - Best Methods for Cooking Pasta: Always boil water before adding the pasta. Use a generous amount of salt in the water. This adds flavor. Cook the pasta until it's al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Check the package for exact times. - Avoiding Common Mistakes: Don't rinse the pasta after cooking. Rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce stick. Also, remember to save some pasta water. This helps adjust the sauce's texture later. Serving your dish well makes it even more appetizing. Here are some ideas: - Serving Suggestions for an Elegant Look: Use deep bowls for a cozy feel. Top each serving with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley. This adds color and freshness. You can also drizzle olive oil on top for a glossy finish. Pro Tips Cook Pasta to Al Dente: This ensures your pasta retains a firm texture, which prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce. Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier without sacrificing flavor. This also helps achieve a creamy texture without excess fat. Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, slowly add reserved pasta water. This helps you control the creaminess while incorporating more flavor from the pasta. Garnish for Freshness: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile of the dish. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra zing! {{image_4}} You can swap beef for turkey or chicken. These meats are leaner and still tasty. Ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe. Just cook them just like you would with beef. They will absorb the flavors of the sauce and spices. This change can make the dish lighter and healthier. For a meat-free version, use plant-based alternatives. Options like lentils or chickpeas add protein and flavor. You can also try a store-bought meat substitute. Just cook them in the same way as ground beef. The creamy sauce pairs well with these ingredients. This way, you can enjoy a rich meal without meat. Incorporating veggies boosts nutrition and color. Try adding spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can sauté these with the onion and garlic. This step keeps the veggies crisp and tasty. Adding vegetables also makes the dish more filling. Feel free to mix in what you have on hand. To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container. Let it cool down first. Cover it tightly to keep it fresh. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. When you want to eat it, simply heat it up in a pan or microwave. If you want to freeze the creamy beef pasta, use a freezer-safe container. Make sure to cool it completely before packing. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat it, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep it creamy. The shelf life of stored pasta and sauce depends on how you keep it. In the fridge, it lasts about three days. In the freezer, it lasts around three months. After that, the taste and texture may change. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. Yes, you can! While whole grain pasta is healthy, many options work well. You might try: - Regular pasta (like penne or fusilli) - Gluten-free pasta made from rice or corn - Whole wheat or chickpea pasta for extra nutrition Each pasta type will change the dish's taste and texture. Experiment to find your favorite! Making this creamy beef pasta dairy-free is easy. Here are some great substitutes: - Use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt - Try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor - Use a dairy-free cheese option for added creaminess These swaps keep the dish tasty while fitting a dairy-free diet. This dish goes well with many sides. Here are some ideas: - A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette - Steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for greens - Garlic bread for a hearty touch Choose sides that balance the meal and add freshness! This dish combines whole grain pasta, lean ground beef, and a creamy yogurt sauce. You learned step-by-step instructions for cooking perfect pasta and making a flavorful sauce. I shared tips on flavor, cooking, and presentation to help elevate your meal. You can also customize this recipe with different proteins or veggies. Remember to store your leftovers properly to enjoy later. This pasta is versatile and easy to make, perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy cooking and experimenting with this tasty meal!

High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta

A delicious and creamy pasta dish packed with protein from lean ground beef and Greek yogurt.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 250 g whole grain pasta (penne or fusilli)
  • 300 g lean ground beef
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • to taste Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole grain pasta and cook it following the package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Once done, drain the pasta, making sure to reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water for later use. Set the pasta aside.
  • In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
  • Increase your heat to medium-high. Introduce the ground beef to the skillet. Season generously with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and, if desired, red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Cook, breaking the beef apart with a spatula, until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked—this should take around 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat if necessary.
  • Lower the heat to low. Stir in the Greek yogurt and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add in the reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time, stirring until you reach your desired consistency.
  • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Gently toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta gets well coated with the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or pepper as necessary for perfect flavor.
  • Portion the creamy beef pasta into bowls or onto plates. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant and fresh finish.

Notes

For an elegant touch, serve the pasta in large, deep bowls or on individual plates. Consider topping each serving with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprig of parsley for an attractive and appetizing appearance.
Keyword beef, creamy, high protein, pasta, quick meal

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