Creamy Beef Pasta (Print-Friendly Version)

A 30-minute protein-packed pasta dish combining lean beef, tomatoes and Greek yogurt for busy weeknights.

# Ingredients List:

→ Meats

01 - 1 lb lean ground beef

→ Fruits and Vegetables

02 - 1 medium onion, diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 can tomatoes with juices (14.5 oz)
05 - 1 handful fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

→ Canned Goods

06 - 1 cup low-sodium beef broth

→ Pasta and Grains

07 - 8 oz penne pasta or short pasta like rigatoni or fusilli

→ Pantry Items and Spices

08 - 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
09 - Salt and pepper, to taste

→ Oils and Vinegars

10 - 1 tbsp olive oil

→ Dairy

11 - ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
12 - ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese

# How to Make It:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
02 - In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
03 - Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the canned tomatoes (with juices) and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and the sauce to slightly reduce.
04 - Turn off the heat and stir in the Greek yogurt. Mix until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen.
05 - Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Stir in grated parmesan cheese. Heat on low for 1–2 minutes until everything is warm and creamy.
06 - Plate the pasta into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley. Serve with extra parmesan if desired.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
02 - Microwave pasta in 60-second intervals, stirring between each, or reheat in a skillet with water or broth.
03 - To add extra vegetables, toss in spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.