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Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta

Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta for Quick Family Dinners

This Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta is a quick, satisfying family meal with protein-packed goodness.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Penne Pasta substitute with rigatoni, rotini, or whole wheat pasta if desired
For the Beef Mixture
  • 1 lb Lean Ground Beef use 90/10 or 93/7 for a less greasy option
  • 1-2 tbsp Olive Oil can substitute with cooking spray or any preferred cooking oil
  • 1 medium Onion (finely chopped) shallots can be used for a milder flavor
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can work
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Paste or marinara sauce for larger quantities
  • 1 cup Beef Broth can substitute with chicken or vegetable broth
  • ¾ cup Plain Greek Yogurt or cottage cheese; use dairy-free yogurt for a vegan version
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar or mozzarella
For Flavoring
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper
  • optional tbsp Fresh Parsley can be replaced with basil or omitted if desired

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • spatula

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, drizzle in olive oil. Add lean ground beef and sauté for about 6-8 minutes until browned. Drain excess grease.
  3. Push beef to one side and add finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until onion is translucent.
  4. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until well combined.
  5. Add beef broth and bring to a simmer for about 3-5 minutes until liquid thickens.
  6. Mix in Greek yogurt and shredded cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
  7. Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. Cook for an additional minute.
  8. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat, adding reserved pasta water if necessary.

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