If you’re on the lookout for a comforting, nutritious meal that can be prepared in a flash, look no further than this One Pan Healthy Ground Beef Pasta recipe. This dish marries convenience with flavor and nutrition, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights. In just under 30 minutes, you can serve up a hearty dish that packs a protein punch, thanks to the lean ground beef, while vibrant spinach and juicy tomatoes keep the meal fresher and healthier.
This recipe shines in its simplicity, requiring minimal cleanup since everything is cooked in one pan. The tender pasta shells absorb the delicious essence of Italian seasonings and the natural flavor of the sautéed vegetables, creating a dish that will please both kids and adults alike. It’s not just a meal; it’s a solution for those frantic evenings when cooking feels like a chore. Whether you need a quick dinner idea, are planning a meal prep session, or simply crave something comforting, this One Pan Healthy Ground Beef Pasta will surely become a go-to in your culinary repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This One Pan Healthy Ground Beef Pasta
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepped and cooked in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- One-Pan Wonder: Say goodbye to piles of dishes! Everything cooks in one pan for easy cleanup.
- Healthy Ingredients: With lean ground beef, fresh spinach, and whole tomatoes, this dish offers a nutritious balance.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for meal prepping, family dinners, or just when you want to enjoy something delicious without the fuss.
- Comfort Food: Hearty and satisfying, it’s ideal for any night when you crave cozy, flavorful food.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this delightful dish, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather your tools for seamless cooking. Start by ensuring your workspace is clean and organized. You’ll need a large, deep skillet that has a lid; this will help in cooking the pasta effectively while trapping the heat and moisture.
Gather your ingredients: olive oil, a small onion, garlic cloves, lean ground beef, Italian seasoning, canned diced tomatoes, water or low-sodium broth, uncooked pasta shells, and fresh spinach. Having these at the ready will streamline the cooking process. Prep your onion by chopping it finely and mincing the garlic. This ensures that they cook evenly and quickly, capturing their flavors beautifully as they sauté. With everything prepped, let’s get to cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups water or low-sodium broth
- 2 cups uncooked pasta shells
- 3 cups fresh spinach, loosely packed
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in your large deep skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, stirring occasionally to avoid burning. This step enhances the dish’s flavor base.
Step 2: Infuse with Garlic
After your onion is perfectly cooked, add the minced garlic and stir it into the mix. Cook for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant—be careful not to let it brown as it can turn bitter. This short step intensifies the dish’s flavor, setting the stage for the beef.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Next, incorporate the lean ground beef into the skillet. Use your spatula or wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for a flavor boost. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is thoroughly browned. If there’s any excess fat, drain it carefully to keep your dish light.
Step 4: Combine Tomatoes and Broth
Pour the can of diced tomatoes, including the juices, into the skillet with the cooked beef. Follow this with either water or low-sodium broth, stirring the mixture until combined. This creates a savory base for your pasta.
Step 5: Add in the Pasta
Now, add the uncooked pasta shells to the skillet. Stir to coat them in the tomato-beef mixture. Bring everything to a boil, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat. Let the dish simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal here is to let the pasta absorb the flavors and cook to a tender perfection.
Step 6: Toss in the Spinach
Once the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, it’s time to add the fresh spinach. Stir it into the mixture and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and incorporates into the pasta. Check for seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper if necessary.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything reaches your desired consistency, serve the pasta hot from the skillet. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated cheese for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy this wholesome dish straight from the pan!
Variations
- Protein: Substitute lean ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lower-fat alternative or use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or even kale for more color and nutrients. Sauté them along with the onions for a fuller flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with your spices – add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or some chopped fresh basil for a fresher taste.
Cooking Notes
- This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to bring back moisture, as the pasta may absorb more liquid over time.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this pasta with a fresh green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil for a delightful contrast.
- Serve with some garlic bread or crusty rolls for a comforting family dinner.
Tips
- For best results, ensure you’re using a deep skillet to prevent spills when boiling the pasta.
- If you’re short on time, you can prep your ingredients ahead of time to speed up the cooking process.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approx. 450 calories per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 300mg
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great substitute and adds extra fiber to your meal.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta, and ensure your broth is also gluten-free.
How can I make this recipe more flavorful?
Add more herbs like thyme or parsley, or incorporate a splash of balsamic vinegar for a depth of flavor.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this dish can be frozen, but it’s best to do so before adding the spinach. Freeze in portions and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
This One Pan Healthy Ground Beef Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a lifesaver for those hectic nights when you want something delicious and wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen. Packed with protein, vibrant vegetables, and rich flavors, this dish invites you to gather around the table and enjoy. Don’t hesitate to mix in your favorite ingredients or tweak the spices to make it your own! Try this recipe tonight, and feel free to leave a comment sharing your experiences or any variations you’ve enjoyed. Happy cooking!
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One Pan Healthy Ground Beef Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This One Pan Healthy Ground Beef Pasta is a comforting, nutritious meal that is easy to prepare!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups water or low-sodium broth
- 2 cups uncooked pasta shells
- 3 cups fresh spinach, loosely packed
Instructions
- Start by heating the olive oil in your large deep skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
- Add the minced garlic and stir it into the mix. Cook for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Incorporate the lean ground beef into the skillet and break it apart as it cooks. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is thoroughly browned.
- Pour the can of diced tomatoes into the skillet with the cooked beef along with the water or broth, stirring until combined.
- Add the uncooked pasta shells to the skillet and bring everything to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat. Let the dish simmer for about 10-12 minutes.
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
- Serve the pasta hot from the skillet, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or grated cheese.
Notes
This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Protein: 30 g