One Pan Healthy Ground Beef Pasta

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Looking for a delicious, comforting dinner that won’t leave your kitchen in chaos? This One Pan Healthy Ground Beef Pasta is a weeknight miracle. It features tender pasta shells, savory seasoned ground beef, sweet tomatoes, and nutrient-packed spinach—all cooked together in a single pan. The result? A hearty meal with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

What makes this recipe stand out is how effortlessly it balances nutrition and convenience. There’s enough comfort to satisfy any craving, and it’s loaded with ingredients that fuel your body. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish ticks all the boxes: quick, easy, and healthy.

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Why You’ll Love This One Pan Healthy Ground Beef Pasta

• One pan = easy cleanup
• Balanced nutrition: carbs, protein, veggies in one.
• Versatile: Use your favorite greens or pasta shapes.
• Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Kid-approved: Familiar flavors even picky eaters will enjoy.

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What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

You can use lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) for a healthier version with less grease. If you use beef with higher fat content, be sure to drain the excess fat after browning. Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped in as well.

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Ingredients for the One Pan Healthy Ground Beef Pasta

Each ingredient in this recipe has a delicious job to do:

• Ground beef: The star of the dish, providing hearty flavor and protein.
• Pasta shells: Perfect for catching the savory sauce and bits of meat.
• Garlic & onion: Bring depth and aroma to the beef.
• Diced tomatoes: Add juiciness and slight acidity to brighten things up.
• Spinach: Packs in nutrients and adds beautiful color.
• Olive oil: Helps with sautéing and keeps things heart-healthy.
• Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning: Essential for seasoning every bite.
• Broth or water: Used to cook the pasta right in the pan.

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How To Make the One Pan Healthy Ground Beef Pasta

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Add the pasta shells and broth (or water). Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover the pan, and cook until the pasta is tender, about 10-12 minutes.

Step 4: Stir in the Spinach

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the spinach and let it wilt from the residual heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

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How to Serve and Store This One Pan Healthy Ground Beef Pasta

This one-pan meal is ideal for feeding 4 to 6 people. It can be served as-is or topped with freshly grated Parmesan for extra richness. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water to refresh the pasta.

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What to Serve With One Pan Healthy Ground Beef Pasta?

Garlic Bread

A side of warm, crispy garlic bread makes this meal even more satisfying.

Mixed Green Salad

Lighten things up with a crisp salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette.

Roasted Vegetables

Try oven-roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for a colorful touch.

Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Nutty and crispy, it’s a fantastic contrast to the soft pasta.

Cucumber Tomato Salad

A refreshing cold side to balance the hearty warm main.

Steamed Green Beans

Simple, wholesome, and always a good fit.

Sauteed Mushrooms

Bring out that umami flavor and deepen the dish.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If this One Pan Healthy Ground Beef Pasta has you craving more cozy meals, try these other reader-loved recipes:

• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta: A Comforting Indulgent Delight
• Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells
• Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta: A Comforting and Flavorful Dish
• Garlic Butter Meatballs with Velvety Parmesan Penne
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with ground turkey? Add extra veggies? I love hearing your twists!

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