Description
Looking for a quick dinner idea that’s hearty, healthy, and full of flavor? This One Pan Healthy Ground Beef Pasta is the perfect solution. With lean ground beef, protein-packed pasta, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes all cooked in one skillet, this easy dinner recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a clean, nourishing meal the whole family will love—with minimal cleanup. Great for meal prep, easy to customize, and ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a weeknight lifesaver in a bowl. Ideal for those seeking healthy food ideas, easy one-pot meals, or quick comfort food without the guilt.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups diced fresh tomatoes (or canned, with juice)
8 ounces small pasta shells
2½ cups water or broth (as needed to cover pasta)
2 cups fresh spinach, packed
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing flavors to combine.
5. Add the pasta shells and pour in just enough water or broth to cover the pasta. Stir to combine.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Once the pasta is nearly tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stir in the spinach and let it wilt, about 1–2 minutes.
8. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
For added depth of flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of broth or wine after browning the beef.
Want a bit of heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you sauté the garlic.
If using canned tomatoes, choose low-sodium and adjust the salt accordingly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (¼ of recipe)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: one pan ground beef pasta, healthy ground beef recipes, quick dinner, easy recipe, pasta skillet