Description
This One-Pan Ground Beef and Spinach Pasta is a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that combines savory ground beef, tender pasta, fresh spinach, and flavorful tomatoes all cooked together in a single skillet. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s perfect for busy evenings when you want a hearty, comforting meal in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Pasta and Liquids
- 12 oz pasta (such as penne or rotini)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup beef broth
Seasonings and Garnishes
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook Pasta: Add the pasta to the skillet and stir well to combine. Cover the pan and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more beef broth if needed to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender.
- Wilt Spinach: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the chopped fresh spinach. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spinach is wilted and incorporated.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and toss gently to combine. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end.
- Make sure to stir occasionally during pasta cooking to prevent sticking or burning on the bottom.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add a bright finish but are optional.
