Savory Ground Beef Pasta with Hidden Veggies & Creamy Sauce

Why This Ground Beef Pasta Recipe Is a Must-Try

This savory dish is a delightful combination of tender pasta, flavorful ground beef, and a creamy sauce that brings everything together. What makes it even more special is the addition of hidden veggies, making it not just a filling meal, but also a nutritious one. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is quick to prepare and can easily be customized to suit your family’s tastes. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or adventurous palates, this ground beef pasta is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This ground beef pasta recipe stands out for several reasons:

• Flavorful Comfort Food: Rich and creamy, this dish is the epitome of comfort food.
• Hidden Veggies: Incorporating vegetables like spinach and bell peppers ensures that your meal is balanced and nutritious, even if they can’t be seen!
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite pasta or add different vegetables based on what you have on hand.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish saves well and can be made ahead for easy reheating.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a dish that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta

• 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti work well)

For the Meat Sauce

• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), finely chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with juices
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter sauce)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create a delicious ground beef pasta that your family will love:

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once heated, add chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Add Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Incorporate Veggies: Stir in the minced garlic, chopped spinach, and diced tomatoes. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts.
5. Add Broth and Seasoning: Pour in the broth and add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Create the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta with the meat sauce evenly. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat through.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your meal, consider pairing your ground beef pasta with:

• Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans can complement the dish and add even more nutrients.
• Wine Pairing: A glass of red wine, such as a Chianti or Merlot, pairs beautifully with the flavors of the dish.

Tips for Success

Here are some tips to ensure your ground beef pasta turns out perfectly:

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: To prevent mushiness, cook the pasta just until al dente.
• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well; portion it out in freezer-safe containers for a quick meal later!
• Adjusting Creaminess: For a lighter version, you can use less cream or substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are a few variations to consider:

• Cheesy Baked Version: After combining the pasta and sauce, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with more cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy version.
• Different Proteins: Substitute ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

This ground beef pasta recipe is a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. It’s simple, delicious, and loaded with hidden veggies, making it a wise choice for families. Plus, the creamy sauce and savory ground beef will have everyone asking for seconds. So grab your ingredients and get ready to whip up a dish that’s not only comforting but also nutritious!