Description
This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a hearty and nutritious meal combining lean ground beef with whole wheat pasta and a rich, creamy sauce made from low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt. Enhanced with fresh vegetables and savory spices, it offers a balanced and flavorful dish perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 250 grams of whole wheat pasta
Beef and Vegetables
- 500 grams of lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup low-fat cream cheese
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups low sodium beef broth
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
- Brown Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Cook Vegetables: Stir in the diced red bell pepper and chopped spinach, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Season: Season the beef and vegetables with dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add Cream Cheese: Add the low-fat cream cheese to the skillet, stirring continuously until it melts and forms a creamy sauce.
- Simmer with Broth: Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Allow the mixture to cook until it slightly thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Incorporate Yogurt and Parmesan: Lower the heat and stir in the plain Greek yogurt and grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring the mixture is well combined.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, gently tossing it in the creamy beef sauce to coat evenly.
- Finish Cooking: Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to keep the dish lower in fat while maintaining protein content.
- Whole wheat pasta adds extra fiber and nutrients compared to regular pasta.
- Low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt create a creamy texture without excessive fat.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
- This dish can be made dairy-free by substituting cream cheese and yogurt with plant-based alternatives.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
