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One-Pot Beef and Garlic Parmesan Spinach Pasta

A cozy, creamy weeknight comfort dish that's easy to make and budget-friendly, filled with rich garlic flavor and fresh spinach.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 5 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the pasta
  • 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or rotini) Choose sturdy pasta like penne or rotini.
  • 1 lb ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or Italian sausage.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic = bigger flavor.
  • 2 cups fresh spinach Will wilt into the sauce.
  • 1.5 cups chicken broth Use to deglaze the pot.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Room-temperature cream cheese melts faster, if using.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 oz cream cheese (optional) For extra creaminess.
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) For a spicy kick.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter Use unsalted butter to control salt.
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • Extra Parmesan (for garnish)
  • Cracked black pepper (for garnish)

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
  2. Add the ground beef, seasoning with salt, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Brown the meat until no pink remains.
  3. Push the beef to one side and add the minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
  4. Stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach and cook until wilted and glossy.
  5. Pour in 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift the browned bits.
  6. Add the uncooked 12 oz pasta, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan and 2 oz of cream cheese (if using). Mix until smooth, then taste and adjust seasoning.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley, extra Parmesan, and cracked pepper.

Notes

Use pre-minced garlic for convenience, and adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding broth or cream if it becomes too thick. Great served with a crisp side salad or garlic bread.