Creamy Beef And Spinach Pasta

Name: Creamy Beef And Spinach Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta of your choice (penne or fettuccine work well); 1 lb ground beef; 3 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Highlighted under: Classic Homestyle Dishes

I absolutely love making Creamy Beef and Spinach Pasta on busy weeknights. It’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that satisfies my cravings without taking too much time in the kitchen. The creamy sauce perfectly coats the pasta, while the beef adds heartiness and the spinach brings in a fresh element. With just a handful of ingredients and less than 30 minutes of prep and cooking, this dish has become a family favorite that I can whip up any night of the week!

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-02-23T22:18:36.323Z

When I first made Creamy Beef and Spinach Pasta, I was amazed at how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. I sautéed the beef until it was perfectly browned, then incorporated the spinach at the very end, allowing it to wilt without losing its vibrant color. I discovered that using fresh spinach rather than frozen gives the dish a brighter taste and appealing texture.

One tip I've learned over time is to reserve a little pasta water when draining; adding a splash to the sauce can help create a creamier consistency. This method not only elevates the sauce but also helps it cling beautifully to the pasta!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that envelops every bite
Nutrient-packed spinach providing color and health benefits
Quick preparation, perfect for any weeknight dinner

The Role of Cream in This Dish

The heavy cream is a crucial component of this creamy beef and spinach pasta recipe, providing richness and a silky texture. It helps to create a sauce that not only clings beautifully to the pasta but also balances the flavors of the beef and spinach without overpowering them. Using heavy cream ensures that the sauce can withstand the heat while maintaining its consistency, making it an excellent choice for quick weeknight meals.

If you're looking to lighten the dish, you can experiment with half-and-half or a cream substitute, though this may alter the texture slightly. If using alternatives, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water to thicken the sauce.

Perfecting Your Pasta Technique

Cooking the pasta to the right level of doneness, or al dente, is essential in achieving the desired texture for your dish. Al dente pasta should have a slight firmness when bitten. Keep an eye on the clock and taste the pasta a minute or two before the package's suggested cooking time to prevent overcooking, which can lead to mushiness and a less enjoyable eating experience.

When draining the pasta, remember to reserve that half cup of pasta water. This starchy liquid is a lifesaver for adjusting the sauce’s consistency and helping it adhere to the pasta. If the sauce feels too thick, adding this reserved pasta water gradually can create a more harmonious blend.

Boosting Flavor with Seasoning

The seasoning blend of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning elevates the entire dish, especially when added at strategic points during the cooking process. Seasoning the meat early on allows the flavors to penetrate and enhance the ground beef, making it more flavorful. When cooking garlic, it's essential to avoid browning it too much, as burnt garlic can impart bitterness to the sauce.

Feel free to personalize the Italian seasoning in this recipe. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a pleasant heat, while fresh herbs like basil or oregano can add an aromatic freshness. Testing different blends can provide a fun twist on the flavors!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious meal.

Ingredients

8 oz pasta of your choice (penne or fettuccine work well)
1 lb ground beef
3 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Ensure everything is prepared before you begin cooking for a seamless experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps closely to achieve a creamy pasta dish you’ll love.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes.

Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

Add the minced garlic to the beef and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Stir in the fresh spinach, cooking until just wilted.

Make the Cream Sauce

Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, mix in reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your creamy beef and spinach pasta!

Perfectly creamy pasta is just a few simple steps away!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. It brings a nice kick to the dish.

Storage Tips

Leftovers of creamy beef and spinach pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The creamy sauce may thicken upon chilling, so when you reheat it, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to bring it back to the original creamy consistency. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid breaking the sauce.

If you plan on making the dish ahead of time, consider preparing the beef and spinach sauce separately from the pasta. This method helps maintain the integrity of the pasta and allows you to combine them just before serving for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra layer of flavor and a pop of color, consider adding fresh cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes to the dish before serving. These additions can provide a sweet contrast that complements the richness of the cream and beef beautifully.

Pair your creamy beef and spinach pasta with a side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the pasta. This balance will make for a well-rounded meal that satisfies your taste buds and leaves you feeling content.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or a blend of milk and cream can be used, but the sauce may not be as rich.

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

While it can be frozen, creamy sauces can separate when thawed. It's best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Peas, mushrooms, or bell peppers could be delicious additions.