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Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta

Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta for a Cozy Weeknight Delight

A delicious Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting and nutritious meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 450 g Penne Pasta Substitute with rigatoni or whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
For the Beef Sauce
  • 450 g Lean Ground Beef Swap with turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter option.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Can substitute with canola or avocado oil.
  • 1 Small Onion Finely chopped; shallots or green onions work well as substitutes.
  • 2 Garlic Cloves Minced; in a pinch, use garlic powder (1/2 tsp).
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Crushed tomatoes can provide an alternative option.
  • 1 cup Beef Broth Chicken or vegetable broth works in its place.
For Creaminess
  • 3/4 cup Plain Greek Yogurt Consider dairy-free yogurt for a plant-based version.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Any melting cheese, like mozzarella or Gruyère, can be used.
For Flavor Enhancement
  • Salt and Black Pepper Adjust according to dietary needs.
  • 2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Parsley Optional garnish for added freshness.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Large Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Sauté Beef: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil, add 450g of lean ground beef, and brown for 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  3. Cook Aromatics: Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
  4. Add Tomato Paste: Stir in tomato paste, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the paste darkens slightly.
  5. Make Sauce: Pour in 1 cup of beef broth, simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
  6. Create Creaminess: Stir in ¾ cup of plain Greek yogurt and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over medium-low heat until melted and creamy.
  7. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything until well-coated.
  8. Season and Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Full-fat yogurt is recommended to prevent curdling. Consider adding vegetables for extra nutrition and flavor. Baked version: top with cheese and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.

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