Creamy Ground Beef and Spinach Pasta Bake
A deliciously creamy and cheesy pasta bake featuring ground beef and spinach for a hearty family dinner.
Equipment
- 1 9x13-inch baking dish greased
- 1 Large Skillet
- 1 Mixing Bowl large
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in chopped spinach. Cook until wilted. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, beef and spinach mixture, heavy cream, beef broth, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Mix thoroughly to combine.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining cheeses.
Baking
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serving
- Allow the pasta bake to cool slightly before serving. This will help the dish set and make it easier to cut into pieces.
Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Notes
Pro Tips: For a creamier sauce, consider adding an extra half cup of heavy cream or incorporating a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheese.
Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also substitute kale for spinach if desired.
How to Serve: Pair this dish with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the pasta bake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for a freshly cooked taste.
Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also substitute kale for spinach if desired.
How to Serve: Pair this dish with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the pasta bake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for a freshly cooked taste.