Name: Ground Beef and Spinach Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 ounce Farfalle pasta (bow tie or similar sized pasta); Water (for cooking pasta); 1 teaspoon Salt (for pasta water); 1 pound ground beef; ½ cup onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 8 ounce frozen spinach; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoon butter; 6 ounce can tomato paste; 2 tablespoon Italian Seasoning; ¼ cup Ricotta cheese; ¼ cup Greek yogurt; ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving); Salt and pepper (to taste); 1 ½ cup reserved pasta water

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 1 review

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting, and utterly delicious meal, this Ground Beef and Spinach Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the richness of juicy ground beef with the fresh vibrancy of spinach, all tossed through farfalle pasta with a creamy, flavorful sauce, every bite feels like a warm hug for your taste buds. It strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and wholesome, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner option that also impresses family and friends alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of various cooking ingredients placed on a white marbled surface. In the center, there is a white bowl filled with dry yellow farfalle pasta. Above it to the right is a white bowl with chopped green leafy spinach, and next to that is a small white bowl containing chopped white onions. Below the spinach, there is a small white bowl holding diced red bell peppers. Towards the bottom center, a white bowl is filled with raw red ground meat. Near the meat, there is a small white bowl with dried green herbs. Next to this are three small white bowls with different ingredients: one with tomato paste in deep red, one with shredded light yellow cheese, and two oval bowls with white creamy substances, likely ricotta and sour cream or yogurt. A set of metal measuring spoons rest on a grey cloth to the top left corner. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward but come together beautifully to create layers of flavor, texture, and color that shine through every forkful. Each component plays a vital role in making this Ground Beef and Spinach Pasta Recipe a true crowd-pleaser.

12 ounces Farfalle pasta: The bow tie shape holds sauce wonderfully, making every bite satisfyingly coated.
Water: Essential for boiling your pasta to the perfect al dente texture.
Salt: Seasoning the pasta water ensures your noodles are flavorful from the start.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a lovely depth to the beef as it cooks and helps vegetables sauté evenly.
1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein base that brings richness and meaty satisfaction.
½ cup onion: For a natural sweetness and aromatic foundation.
1 bell pepper: Adds a fresh crunch and colorful vibrancy to the dish.
8 ounces frozen spinach: Convenient and nutritious, it brightens up the sauce with its vibrant green hue.
2 tablespoons butter: Brings a silky finish to the sauce, rounding out the flavors beautifully.
6-ounce can tomato paste: Intensifies the sauce with concentrated tomato goodness.
2 tablespoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that elevates the sauce with classic herbs.
¼ cup ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and a gentle tang for richness.
¼ cup Greek yogurt: Keeps the sauce light while adding a pleasant tangy note.
⅓ cup Parmesan cheese: Infuses the sauce with a salty, umami kick, plus extra for serving.
1 ½ cups reserved pasta water: Magic ingredient to loosen the sauce and help it cling perfectly to noodles.
Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing all the flavors.

How to Make Ground Beef and Spinach Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot or Dutch oven filled with salted water to a boil. Add your farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—that perfect balance of tender but still firm. Before draining, be sure to reserve 1 ½ cups of the pasta water, as it plays a crucial role in perfecting your sauce’s texture.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

While the pasta water heats, warm the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it for about 4 to 6 minutes, breaking it up until it’s thoroughly browned. Once done, transfer the beef to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain excess fat, but keep as much of that beautiful beef fat in the pan as possible because it’s packed with flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables and Spinach

In the same pan with reserved beef fat, toss in diced onion, chopped bell pepper, and frozen spinach. Cook over medium-high heat until the onion and pepper have softened and the spinach is thawed and a bright green color—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds the fresh, vibrant vegetable base for the sauce.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Tomato Sauce

In the pot or Dutch oven you used for pasta, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the tomato paste and Italian seasoning and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes until the tomato paste darkens slightly, boosting its flavor. Then stir in ricotta cheese, Greek yogurt, Parmesan, half a cup of reserved pasta water, and season with salt and pepper. Stir thoroughly to create a luxuriously creamy, flavorful sauce, then reduce heat to low so it stays warm.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

Return the cooked ground beef and sautéed spinach mixture to the pot. Add the remaining butter, the additional ¼ cup pasta water, and the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is beautifully coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels a little dry, slowly add the remaining pasta water until it reaches your preferred consistency. This final step blends all the layers into one irresistible dish.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Spinach Pasta Recipe

A close-up view of cooked ground meat spread in a single rough layer on a white paper towel, showing a crumbly texture in light to medium brown shades, resting on a white marbled surface. Nearby are old silver measuring spoons stacked on a gray cloth, a wooden spoon with a smooth surface placed diagonally, and a black cast iron skillet with oil residue and small food bits inside, partially visible at the bottom right. The overall scene gives a rustic, homemade cooking feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finishing touches make all the difference. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese generously on top for a salty, melty finish that ties everything together. A few fresh basil leaves or a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil can also add a lovely aroma and color contrast.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or garlic bread that you can use to scoop up extra sauce. Roasted vegetables such as zucchini or asparagus also complement the rich flavors without overpowering them.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve the Ground Beef and Spinach Pasta Recipe in rustic bowls with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a twist of black pepper on top. You can also layer the pasta with sauce and cheese in a baking dish, bake until bubbly, and serve as a delicious casserole variation that’s perfect for cozy dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, leftovers will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Since this dish contains dairy and cooked beef, it’s best enjoyed within that timeframe for optimal taste and food safety.

Freezing

While freezing pasta with cream-based sauces can be tricky, this Ground Beef and Spinach Pasta Recipe freezes reasonably well if stored properly. Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. It will keep frozen for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat your pasta on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and stir gently until warmed through. Microwaving works too if you cover the dish and heat in short increments, stirring in between to prevent dryness and ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I substitute the farfalle pasta with other types?

Absolutely! While farfalle is great for holding the sauce, penne, rigatoni, or even fusilli would work beautifully in this Ground Beef and Spinach Pasta Recipe. Just adjust cooking times according to package instructions.

Is it possible to use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh spinach can be a wonderful substitute. Use about 10 to 12 ounces of fresh spinach, sautéing it down until wilted before adding to your pasta. It might reduce faster than frozen, so keep an eye on it during cooking.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Certainly! Swap out the farfalle pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to check the cooking time, as gluten-free options vary. The rest of the recipe stays the same and just as delicious.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt in the sauce?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, sour cream or a mild cream cheese work well as substitutes. They will maintain the creamy texture and add a similar tang to the sauce.

How can I add more spice to this pasta?

To spice things up, add crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables or stir in a dash of hot sauce into the sauce. Fresh chopped jalapeños in the bell pepper step can also bring a nice, fresh kick.

Final Thoughts

I’m genuinely excited for you to try this Ground Beef and Spinach Pasta Recipe. It’s a dish full of comfort, flavor, and nourishment that quickly becomes a favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or want something satisfying to share, this recipe hits all the right notes. Happy cooking and even happier eating!