Making this kind of pasta can sometimes feel boring, but ground beef and spinach pasta is different because it balances comfort and freshness at the same time. The beef brings depth and richness, while the spinach adds color, lightness, and a gentle earthiness that keeps the dish from feeling too rich. Everything cooks in stages, so the flavors build slowly and naturally, and the final result tastes like it took much longer than it really did.

This Ground Beef and Spinach Pasta recipe is one of those meals that feels warm, filling, and familiar from the very first bite. It combines tender pasta, well-seasoned ground beef, and fresh spinach in a rich, savory sauce that comes together without stress. I love how simple ingredients turn into something so satisfying, especially on busy days when I still want real, homemade food on the table. This dish is cozy without being heavy, and flavorful without being complicated, which makes it a true kitchen staple.

I have made this recipe many times, and I always notice how forgiving it is. I use simple pantry spices and fresh spinach whenever I can, and I always adjust the sauce slightly depending on my mood. Sometimes I like it saucier, sometimes thicker, but it always turns out delicious. This is one of those recipes that grows with you and becomes better every time you make it.

You can serve this pasta as a full meal on its own, with some crusty bread on the side, also with a fresh green salad or even roasted vegetables. It works beautifully for family dinners, casual gatherings, or quiet nights when you just want something comforting and filling without too much effort.

Its Perfect For

• Busy Weeknights
• Family Dinners
• Meal Prep
• Beginner Cooks
• Comfort Food Cravings

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup beef broth or pasta water
• 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
• Optional: 2 tablespoons heavy cream or cream cheese for extra richness

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Deep skillet or large pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander for draining pasta

How to Make Ground Beef and Spinach Pasta

Step 1

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, meaning tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2

Brown the ground beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes soft and slightly translucent. Add the ground beef and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed for a cleaner sauce.

Step 3

Build the flavor: Add the minced garlic to the beef and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Mix well so the spices coat the beef evenly and release their aroma.

Step 4

Create the sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth (or reserved pasta water). Stir gently and reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer for 8–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and slightly thicken. If the sauce looks too thick, add a little more broth or pasta water.

Step 5

Add the spinach: Gradually add the spinach to the skillet, stirring gently. It will wilt down within 1–2 minutes. Make sure it is evenly distributed throughout the sauce for balanced flavor and color.

Step 6

Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet. Toss well so the pasta is fully coated with the beef and spinach sauce. If desired, stir in heavy cream or cream cheese at this stage for a richer, creamier texture.

Step 7

Finish and serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss one last time and taste, adjusting seasoning if needed. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top.

Tips for the Best Ground Beef and Spinach Pasta

• Salt the pasta water well
  This is the only chance to season the pasta itself.
  The water should taste slightly salty.
  It makes a big difference in final flavor.
• Brown the beef properly
  Let it cook without stirring too much at first.
  This creates better flavor and texture.
  Avoid overcrowding the pan.
• Drain excess fat if needed
  Too much grease can make the sauce heavy.
  Leave a little for flavor, but not all of it.
  This keeps the dish balanced.
• Add spinach gradually
  Spinach wilts very fast once heated.
  Adding it in batches helps it mix evenly.
  This keeps the color bright and fresh.
• Use pasta water wisely
  Reserved pasta water helps loosen the sauce.
  It also helps the sauce stick to the pasta.
  Add it slowly, a little at a time.
• Don’t overcook the pasta
  Al dente pasta holds up better in the sauce.
  Overcooked pasta becomes mushy.
  Slight firmness is ideal.
• Taste before serving
  Always adjust salt and seasoning at the end.
  Cheese and sauce can change the balance.
  A final taste makes everything better.

Optional Ingredients

• Mushrooms, sliced
• Bell peppers, chopped
• Heavy cream for richness
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Fresh basil or parsley
• Ricotta or cream cheese

How to Serve Ground Beef and Spinach Pasta

I love serving this pasta fresh and hot, right after everything comes together. I usually plate it in wide bowls so the sauce can spread nicely around the pasta. A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top makes it feel extra comforting and complete.

I often serve it with something crunchy on the side, like garlic bread or toasted breadsticks. The bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce left at the bottom of the bowl. When I want something lighter, I add a simple green salad with lemon dressing to balance the richness.

I also enjoy serving this dish family-style when friends or family are over. I place the pan in the middle of the table and let everyone serve themselves. It feels warm, relaxed, and welcoming, and it always makes the meal feel more special and homemade. Sometimes, I add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper at the table for an elegant finishing touch.

Is Ground Beef and Spinach Pasta Healthy?

Ground beef and spinach pasta can be a balanced meal when made thoughtfully. It provides protein from the beef, iron and vitamins from the spinach, and energy from the pasta. Using lean ground beef and controlling portion size helps keep it lighter.

Adding plenty of spinach boosts the nutritional value without changing the taste too much. You can also choose whole wheat pasta and limit added cream or cheese if you want a healthier version while still enjoying the same comforting flavors.

Variations and Substitutions

• Chicken Instead of Beef
  Use ground chicken for a lighter option.
  Season well since it is milder.
  Cook gently to avoid dryness.
  Still pairs well with spinach.
• Turkey Version
  Ground turkey is lean and affordable.
  Add extra spices for depth.
  A splash of broth helps moisture.
  Great for meal prep.
• Creamy Tomato Style
  Add heavy cream or cream cheese.
  Creates a softer, richer sauce.
  Perfect for comfort food lovers.
  Balance with extra spinach.
• No Tomato Version
  Skip tomatoes and use broth only.
  Finish with Parmesan and olive oil.
  Simple and elegant.
  Lets beef flavor shine.
• Spicy Pasta
  Add chili flakes or hot sauce.
  Gives the dish more kick.
  Adjust heat to taste.
  Great for spice lovers.
• Vegetarian Swap
  Replace beef with lentils or mushrooms.
  Keep seasoning strong.
  Still filling and hearty.
  Perfect meatless option.
• Cheesy Bake
  Transfer to a baking dish.
  Top with mozzarella.
  Bake until bubbly.
  Great for gatherings.
• Gluten-Free Option
  Use gluten-free pasta.
  Cook carefully to avoid breaking.
  Sauce works the same.
  Still delicious and satisfying.

How to Store and How to Reheat

Store leftover ground beef and spinach pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Let it cool fully before storing to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture of the pasta.

To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a small splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir halfway through reheating to ensure even warmth and better texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef and Spinach Pasta

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works well in this recipe.
Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
Squeeze out as much water as possible so the sauce stays thick.

What type of ground beef is best?
I prefer lean ground beef like 85/15 for flavor and less grease.
You can use fattier beef, but drain excess fat carefully.
Lean beef keeps the pasta balanced and healthy.

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for making ahead.
Flavors deepen when it rests in the fridge overnight.
Reheat gently and add a splash of water if needed.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The flavors are mild and comforting.
You can skip spices like red pepper flakes if serving children.
Kids usually enjoy the creamy tomato sauce and tender beef.

Ground Beef and Spinach Pasta Recipe

Recipe by Maria MeyerCourse: Main CourseCuisine: Italian-AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Ground Beef and Spinach Pasta is a comforting, easy homemade recipe made with simple ingredients, rich flavors, and fresh spinach. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, and meal prep.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti)

• 1 lb ground beef

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 cup crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce

• 1/2 cup beef broth or pasta water

• 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)

• Optional: 2 tablespoons heavy cream or cream cheese for extra richness

Directions

• Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, meaning tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
• Brown the ground beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes soft and slightly translucent. Add the ground beef and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed for a cleaner sauce.
• Build the flavor: Add the minced garlic to the beef and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Mix well so the spices coat the beef evenly and release their aroma.
• Create the sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth (or reserved pasta water). Stir gently and reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer for 8–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and slightly thicken. If the sauce looks too thick, add a little more broth or pasta water.
• Add the spinach: Gradually add the spinach to the skillet, stirring gently. It will wilt down within 1–2 minutes. Make sure it is evenly distributed throughout the sauce for balanced flavor and color.
• Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet. Toss well so the pasta is fully coated with the beef and spinach sauce. If desired, stir in heavy cream or cream cheese at this stage for a richer, creamier texture.
• Finish and serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss one last time and taste, adjusting seasoning if needed. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top.