One-Pot Beef & Garlic Parmesan Spinach Pasta
This rich, comforting One-Pot Beef & Garlic Parmesan Spinach Pasta is your weeknight dinner hero. Packed with savory ground beef, tender pasta, wilted spinach, and a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, it comes together in a single pot—meaning less mess and more flavor. Perfect for busy evenings or cozy family meals, this recipe balances bold Italian-inspired flavor with serious comfort-food vibes.
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something deeply satisfying about a one-pot pasta dish where every ingredient cooks together and melds into something greater than the sum of its parts. The beef brings hearty, savory depth, the spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition, and the creamy Parmesan sauce ties it all together. Plus, fewer dishes = more time to actually enjoy your meal!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Optional Swaps & Notes
- Ground meat: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Spinach: Kale or arugula work beautifully if you don’t have spinach on hand.
- Dairy-free? Use coconut cream and a plant-based Parmesan alternative.
- Gluten-free? Use GF pasta, just monitor the cook time closely.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain any excess grease and return to the pot. - Build the Flavor Base
Add olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped onion to the pot. Sauté for 4 minutes, until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant. - Season the Dish
Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let it cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spices. - Add Liquids & Pasta
Pour in the beef broth and canned diced tomatoes (with juices). Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the pasta. Stir to submerge the pasta completely. - Simmer to Perfection
Lower the heat to medium. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the liquid mostly absorbed. - Stir in Spinach
Add the chopped spinach and stir until wilted—about 2-3 minutes. - Finish with Cream & Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Mix until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and coats every bite. - Serve & Enjoy
Dish up hot and garnish with more Parmesan cheese. Add a pinch of crushed red pepper if you want a little kick!
Tips for Success
- Stir every few minutes while simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Use a pot with a tight-fitting lid to keep the moisture in and the pasta tender.
- Don’t overcook the spinach—add it right at the end so it stays vibrant and fresh.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve this hearty one-pot pasta with:
- A fresh side salad and crusty garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or green beans
- A glass of bold red wine like Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon
Want to serve a crowd? Pair this dish with something equally comforting like This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casseroleor a batch of Sheet Pan Quesadillas.
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
More One-Pot Meals You’ll Love
- This Instant Pot Lasagna is My Favorite Way to Make Comfort Food Fast
- These Chicken Enchiladas are My Go-To for Cozy, Crowd-Pleasing Dinners
- This Dorito Casserole is My Favorite Weeknight Dinner Shortcut
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Beef & Garlic Parmesan Spinach Pasta brings comfort, flavor, and convenience together in one skillet. It’s a recipe that satisfies picky eaters and busy cooks alike. If you try it, let me know how it turned out in the comments below!
Don’t forget to tag @chefmaniac on Instagram and follow for more easy dinner wins!
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