Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
High in protein – The combination of lean beef and Greek yogurt boosts the protein content, helping to keep you full longer.
Creamy and indulgent – The creamy sauce is rich, satisfying, and pairs perfectly with pasta.
Flavor-packed – The seasoning blend gives this dish a savory depth, making every bite mouthwatering.
Customizable – Add vegetables or swap pasta for a healthier option like zucchini noodles for a lighter twist.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground lean beef
Olive oil
Garlic
Onion
Heavy cream
Greek yogurt
Parmesan cheese
Dried Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Pasta (such as penne or spaghetti)
Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Directions

Cook the pasta – Begin by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Brown the beef – While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.
Sauté the aromatics – Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Make the creamy sauce – Stir in the heavy cream and Greek yogurt, mixing until the sauce is smooth. Add the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and continue to cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
Combine pasta and sauce – Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
Serve – Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

Vegetable Add-ins – Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra veggies and flavor.
Zucchini Noodles – Replace pasta with zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
Cheese Variation – Swap Parmesan for mozzarella or add extra cheese for a richer flavor.
Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for some heat.
Ground Turkey or Chicken – Swap the beef for lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the creamy beef pasta for up to 2 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use a lower-fat milk for a lighter option.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite pasta, whether it’s whole wheat, gluten-free, or any shape you prefer.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes or a little hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, adding spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers will enhance the flavor and add nutrients.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just reheat it before combining with pasta.

Can I use Greek yogurt if I don’t have it on hand?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt, regular yogurt or sour cream can be used as a substitute. However, Greek yogurt adds a thicker and creamier texture.

How do I ensure the sauce is creamy?

Make sure to stir the sauce frequently and allow the cheese to melt completely. Adding the pasta directly to the sauce helps it absorb the creaminess.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for up to 2 months.

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative, and skip the cheese. You can use nutritional yeast as a cheese substitute for added flavor.

Can I use a different protein in this recipe?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles would work well in this recipe.

Conclusion

This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner that combines quick preparation with satisfying flavors. With its creamy, protein-packed sauce and tender beef, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. You can easily customize it to your liking by adding vegetables, switching up the pasta, or adjusting the seasonings. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just enjoying a cozy meal at home, this recipe delivers on both taste and nutrition.