There’s something special about a bowl of pasta that instantly brings comfort. For me, this Creamy Beef & Tomato Penne is more than just a meal—it’s a reminder of cozy weeknights spent around the family table. I remember coming home after long days, exhausted but excited to smell the rich aroma of garlic and onions sizzling in a pan. My mother would always have something hearty simmering on the stove, and pasta was a frequent favorite.
One evening, she surprised us with a new creation—a creamy yet slightly tangy tomato-based penne with perfectly seasoned beef. It had all the classic flavors we loved, but with a lighter, velvety texture that made every bite irresistible. That was the night this dish became a household staple.
Now, whenever I make it, I’m reminded of those simple moments—the sound of pasta boiling, the warmth of a home-cooked meal, and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this Creamy Beef & Tomato Penne is guaranteed to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a pasta dish that’s rich in flavor but lightened up for a healthier twist, this one is for you! Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:
- Perfect Balance of Creamy & Savory – The combination of Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese creates a luscious sauce without the heaviness of traditional cream-based pastas.
- Quick & Easy – This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- High-Protein & Nutritious – Lean ground beef, Greek yogurt, and Parmesan add a boost of protein, while tomatoes bring essential vitamins.
- Customizable – Swap ingredients to suit your taste, whether it’s changing the pasta, using ground turkey instead of beef, or adding extra veggies.
- Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike love this comforting, cheesy pasta.
Ingredients:
- For the Pasta Dish:
- 12 oz penne pasta (or whole wheat/chickpea alternative)
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For Garnishing:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Directions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Beef:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Build the Flavor:
- Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Stir in diced tomatoes (with juices) and beef broth. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Make it Creamy:
- Reduce heat to low and stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Combine & Serve:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving – Approx. 1 ½ Cups):
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 6g
This Creamy Beef & Tomato Penne is a perfect blend of rich, hearty flavors with a lightened-up creamy touch—ideal for a cozy family dinner!
Secrets to the Best Creamy Beef & Tomato Penne
1. Choose the Right Pasta
Penne is a great choice because its ridges help the creamy sauce cling to every bite. If you want to switch things up, try rotini, rigatoni, or even whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.
2. Brown the Beef for Maximum Flavor
Cooking the beef until it’s deeply browned adds a rich, meaty taste to the dish. Make sure to drain excess fat if needed to keep the sauce from becoming greasy.
3. Let the Sauce Simmer
Allowing the diced tomatoes and broth to simmer for a few minutes helps the flavors meld together. This step enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and deepens the overall taste of the sauce.
4. Use Greek Yogurt for a Lighter Creaminess
Instead of heavy cream, this recipe uses Greek yogurt to create a smooth, creamy texture. Not only does it cut down on fat, but it also adds a boost of protein and a subtle tang that complements the tomato base beautifully.
5. Fresh Herbs Make All the Difference
A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley just before serving brightens the dish and adds a fresh, vibrant contrast to the richness of the sauce.
Ways to Serve This Dish
This Creamy Beef & Tomato Penne is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with a few serving ideas:
1. With a Side of Garlic Bread
A warm, crispy slice of garlic bread is the perfect way to soak up every last drop of the creamy sauce.
2. Paired with a Fresh Salad
Balance the richness of the pasta with a simple green salad, drizzled with a light vinaigrette.
3. Topped with Extra Cheese
If you’re a cheese lover, add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan or even some shredded mozzarella for a gooey, indulgent finish.
4. Served with Roasted Vegetables
Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus make a great side dish to complement the flavors of the pasta.
5. As a Meal Prep Option
This pasta holds up well for leftovers, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping. Store it in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
Storing & Reheating Leftovers
One of the best things about this dish is that it tastes just as good the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat it:
Refrigeration:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
This pasta can be frozen, but keep in mind that dairy-based sauces may slightly change texture. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Add a splash of beef broth or milk and reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, to avoid uneven heating.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it separately from the pasta. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, cook fresh pasta, and combine them.
2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. You can also use ground chicken or even a plant-based meat substitute.
3. Is there a dairy-free alternative to Greek yogurt?
Yes! You can substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt or canned coconut milk for a creamy texture without dairy.
4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the regular penne for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Most brands hold up well in creamy sauces.
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5. What can I add to make it even more flavorful?
If you want to enhance the flavors, try adding red pepper flakes for a little heat, a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth, or even sun-dried tomatoes for extra richness.
6. How do I keep the sauce from curdling?
To prevent the Greek yogurt from curdling, make sure to lower the heat before adding it. Stir it in gently and avoid boiling the sauce after incorporating the yogurt.
Conclusion: A Dish That Feels Like Home
This Creamy Beef & Tomato Penne is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting, satisfying dish that brings warmth to any table. With its hearty ground beef, velvety tomato sauce, and a touch of creamy goodness, it’s a pasta dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight but delicious enough to impress guests.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something cozy, this dish is guaranteed to become a go-to favorite. Give it a try, and experience the perfect blend of rich, creamy, and savory flavors in every bite!
