Creamy Beef And Spinach Pasta

Name: Creamy Beef And Spinach Pasta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz (340g) pasta (fettuccine or your choice); 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water); 1 lb (450g) ground beef; 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup onion, diced; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Homemade Bliss

I love cooking creamy beef and spinach pasta because it brings together rich flavors and comfort in every bite. The combination of tender beef, vibrant spinach, and luscious cream creates a dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to make. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner with friends and family. I always find that the addition of a bit of garlic and a sprinkle of cheese elevates the entire experience, making it a favorite in our household.

Created by

Celeste Morgan

Last updated on 2026-02-24T04:41:35.984Z

Cooking this creamy beef and spinach pasta was a delightful experiment, as I aimed to marry the savory notes of the beef with the freshness of spinach. I found that slowly incorporating the cream allowed it to thicken beautifully without separating. The result was a smooth sauce that clung perfectly to the pasta, making every bite a blissful mouthful.

While adding garlic might seem optional, I realized it adds a depth of flavor that takes this dish up a notch. I even like to finish it off with grated Parmesan for that extra indulgent touch. Trust me, these small details really make a difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich creaminess balanced by the freshness of spinach
Heartiness from the beef that satisfies cravings
Quick to prepare yet feels like a gourmet meal

Making Perfectly Creamy Sauce

The key to achieving that irresistibly creamy sauce is to use quality heavy cream. While other cream alternatives might work in a pinch, heavy cream offers the richness that makes this dish feel indulgent. As the cream simmers with the cooked beef and spinach, it should take on a glossy appearance, indicating it's ready to combine with the pasta. Always remember to stir frequently at this stage to prevent it from sticking or burning on the bottom of the skillet.

In addition to the heavy cream, incorporating grated Parmesan cheese enhances the overall flavor profile of the sauce. As it melts, the cheese adds a nutty undertone that ties the dish together beautifully. To ensure a smooth blend, add the cheese gradually while stirring the sauce, allowing it to fully melt and incorporate before adding more. This method prevents clumping and creates a luxuriously creamy consistency.

Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh garlic and onion elevates this pasta dish by imparting layers of flavor that dried spices simply cannot replicate. Sauté the onions until they are translucent, stirring often, which typically takes about 4-5 minutes over medium heat. This caramelization process unlocks their natural sweetness, providing a perfect backdrop for the savory beef and cream. Likewise, the minced garlic should be added towards the end of the onion cooking time to prevent it from burning, which can lead to a bitter taste.

If you're looking to adapt the recipe, consider adding other vegetables that complement the beef and spinach. Mushrooms or bell peppers can enhance both texture and flavor. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic for around 3-4 minutes until they soften. This not only enriches the dish but also adds color and nutrition, making it even more satisfying.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Leftover creamy beef and spinach pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess. Stir gently until heated through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can result in a dry, unevenly warmed dish.

For serving, sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese and consider garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to introduce a fresh note. This not only brings a pop of color but also adds a fragrant element that enhances the overall dining experience. You can also pair the pasta with a light salad or crusty garlic bread to complete your meal.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz (340g) pasta (fettuccine or your choice)
1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Sauce

1 lb (450g) ground beef
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup onion, diced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

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, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water.

Prepare the Meat

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the chopped spinach, cooking until wilted. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, mixing well. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water as needed.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the pasta to sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors, then serve warm with extra cheese on top if desired.

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the meat. You can also substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option while keeping the dish hearty.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

If you're cooking for a larger group or want to meal prep, this creamy beef and spinach pasta recipe is easily scalable. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. For instance, increasing the pasta and beef to 1.5 or even double amounts will not impact the cooking process significantly. Keep an eye on the sauce consistency when scaling; you might need extra cream or cheese to maintain a balanced flavor.

Conversely, if you're cooking for one or two, consider halving the ingredients. The pasta can be cooked in the same way, but you may find stock on saving leftovers. Store any extras as suggested, as the dish reheats beautifully, making it a practical choice even in smaller quantities.

Ingredient Substitutions for Dietary Needs

For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe can easily accommodate gluten-free diets. Swap traditional pasta for gluten-free varieties made from rice or lentils, which maintain a satisfying texture. Cooking times may vary slightly, so be sure to check the package instructions for best results.

If you're looking to lighten up the dish or make it dairy-free, consider using coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese. The coconut will add a different flavor profile but can still create a creamy texture. Just be mindful that these substitutions can alter the overall taste of the dish—experiment to find your perfect balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach can work just fine! Just ensure you thaw it completely and drain excess water before adding it to the sauce.

→ What pasta types work best for this recipe?

While fettuccine holds the sauce beautifully, you can also use penne, bowtie, or even whole grain pasta.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat or mushrooms for a hearty texture, and use vegetable broth in place of beef.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and simply reheat it before tossing it with freshly cooked pasta.