Description
A delicious high-protein creamy beef pasta made with whole wheat pasta, lean ground beef, and a rich, healthy sauce combining low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt. This hearty dish is packed with nutritious ingredients like spinach and bell peppers, perfect for a comforting yet balanced meal in just 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 250 grams of whole wheat pasta
Beef and Vegetables
- 500 grams of lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup low-fat cream cheese
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups low sodium beef broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Brown the Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook it thoroughly until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon to ensure even cooking.
- Cook Vegetables: Stir in the diced red bell pepper and chopped spinach. Continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened but still vibrant.
- Season the Mixture: Sprinkle in the dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings throughout the beef and vegetables.
- Add Cream Cheese: Incorporate the low-fat cream cheese into the skillet, stirring continuously over medium heat until it melts completely, forming a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Simmer with Broth: Pour in the low sodium beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens, enhancing the flavors.
- Finish the Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the plain Greek yogurt along with the grated Parmesan cheese, blending everything until smooth and creamy without boiling to prevent curdling.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked whole wheat pasta directly into the skillet. Gently toss the pasta to coat it thoroughly with the creamy beef sauce.
- Combine and Heat Through: Cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully and the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.
- Serve: Dish out the pasta while hot, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and enjoy your nutritious, high-protein creamy beef pasta.
Notes
- Ensure the Greek yogurt is stirred in off the heat to avoid curdling.
- Using lean ground beef keeps the dish lower in fat while maintaining protein content.
- Whole wheat pasta adds fiber and improves the nutritional profile compared to regular pasta.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt, as low sodium beef broth is used.
- Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh finish but is optional.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
