High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
This High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition packed with lean ground beef, creamy Greek yogurt sauce, and high-protein pasta. A quick, one-pan meal that’s rich, satisfying, and ready in 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 8 oz high-protein or whole wheat pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef 90% lean or higher
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or light cream cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh spinach or ½ cup peas optional
- Optional Add-Ins:
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes for heat
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella for a cheesy bake
- Extra herbs for garnish parsley or basil
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and drain.
- Brown the beef: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft. Stir in garlic, then add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat.
- Make the sauce: Lower heat and stir in Greek yogurt (or light cream cheese) until creamy. Add Parmesan and a splash of pasta water to loosen. Mix until smooth.
- Combine everything: Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly in sauce. Stir in spinach or peas, if using, and season with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Finish & serve: Garnish with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use chickpea or lentil pasta for even more protein and a gluten-free option.
- For lighter sauce, stir in a splash of almond milk or broth.
- To meal prep: store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently with a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess.
- For extra flavor, top with shredded mozzarella and broil for 2–3 minutes.