Creamy Beef And Spinach Pasta

Name: Creamy Beef And Spinach Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 300g pasta of your choice (penne or fusilli recommended); Salt for boiling water; 500g ground beef; 150g fresh spinach; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 250ml heavy cream; 100g grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Busy Day Cooking

I absolutely love making Creamy Beef and Spinach Pasta during busy weeknights when time is tight but I still want a comforting meal. This dish is rich and satisfying, yet it comes together in just under 30 minutes. The creamy sauce envelops tender beef and fresh spinach, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures. I often make extra so I have leftovers for lunch, and it never fails to impress my family and friends. If you're looking for a quick but indulgent meal, this is definitely the recipe for you.

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-02-24T05:41:36.274Z

When I first attempted this recipe, I was surprised at how quickly everything came together. The key is to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go; this makes the cooking process seamless and enjoyable. Using fresh spinach is a must, as it wilts perfectly into the sauce, adding nutrition and vibrant color.

I've also experimented with different types of pasta and seasoning blends to tailor it to my family's preferences. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top brings everything together beautifully, making it not just a meal, but an experience that lingers in memory.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that comforts the soul
Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition
Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy nights

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a rich sauce lies in the fat content of the ground beef you choose. Opt for an 80/20 blend for that ideal level of flavor and moisture. If you're looking to lighten the dish, ground turkey can also work well but will change the flavor profile slightly. The fresh spinach plays a crucial role, not just for nutrition but also for its vibrant color, adding a visually appealing touch to the creamy dish.

Using high-quality heavy cream elevates the sauce. It not only thickens but also adds a luxurious mouthfeel that balances well with the savory beef. Grated Parmesan cheese should be freshly grated, if possible; it melts better than pre-grated varieties, ensuring a smooth sauce. For a bit of tang, consider mixing in a splash of lemon juice right at the end before serving.

Cooking Techniques for Success

When cooking your pasta, timing is key. Aim to cook it al dente so it retains some bite; this will help it absorb the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Always reserve that cup of pasta water before draining—it’s the magic ingredient for adjusting the sauce's consistency later on. If the sauce begins to clump or solidify too quickly, adding a bit of the starchy pasta water while stirring helps create a silky texture.

Sautéing the onion and garlic until they're translucent allows their flavors to develop without burning, which can happen quickly over medium heat if you’re not careful. I often use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the skillet for added flavor, ensuring nothing sticks and everything cooks evenly. This technique also provides a great base for the savory notes in your dish.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

300g pasta of your choice (penne or fusilli recommended)
Salt for boiling water

For the Sauce

500g ground beef
150g fresh spinach
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
250ml heavy cream
100g grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned and fully cooked.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the cooked pasta and mix well. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.

Finish with Parmesan

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce or a dash of crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the creamy beef and spinach pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a dash of heavy cream or reserved pasta water to bring the dish back to life without drying it out.

For meal prep, consider making the sauce ahead of time, as it tastes even better the next day, allowing the flavors to deepen. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to eat to maintain its perfect texture. If you plan to freeze the dish, do so without the pasta to prevent mushiness upon reheating, and enjoy it within two months.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to customize this dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce—just sauté them alongside the onions. This variation not only boosts nutrition but also introduces different textures and flavors that complement the creaminess beautifully.

For added flavors, consider stirring in a teaspoon of Italian herbs or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of a kick. Alternatively, switch up the cheese for a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for an extra cheesy twist. These variations can make the dish feel fresh and exciting, even on repeat nights!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as substitutes for beef.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can try using half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a lighter option.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and cook the pasta just before serving for the best texture.

→ Is it okay to use frozen spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used; just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the sauce.