Pasta Minced Beef Dinner

This easy pasta and minced beef pan is my answer to weeknights when I want rich flavor without a mountain of dishes. Everything comes together in a single pan leaving you with comfort food that tastes slow-cooked but is ready in a flash.

I first cooked this on a rainy night when I had odds and ends in the fridge and every time I make it the whole family eats with big smiles

Ingredients

• Pasta of your choice: brings satisfying bite use bronze-cut for the best sauce cling
• Ground beef: gives deep flavor buy seventy to eighty percent lean for juiciness
• Red onion: brings natural sweetness look for firm onions with shiny skin
• Red and yellow bell peppers: add color and crunch select peppers with tight glossy skin
• Baby spinach: wilts into the sauce for nutrients fresh leaves keep their color best
• Garlic cloves: add aroma use plump unbruised bulbs
• Tomato paste: intensifies the sauce pick double concentrated paste if possible
• Vegetable broth: builds extra flavor low sodium broths let you control seasoning
• Heavy cream: makes everything luxuriously silky go for full-fat
• Grated cheese: melts for extra richness sharp cheeses add tang
• Sweet paprika: balances savory and sweet opt for fresh ground for the brightest flavor
• Italian herbs: infuse the dish with instant Mediterranean vibes dried or fresh both work
• Olive oil: starts everything with depth extra virgin is my go-to

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Veggies:

Peel and finely dice the onion and garlic making sure both are cut small so they melt into the sauce In the meantime remove stems from peppers and cut them into even small cubes for quick cooking

Boil the Pasta:

Set your pasta cooking in a large pot of salted boiling water Cook for one minute less than the package says so it stays firm when mixed later Reserve a splash of pasta water in case you want a looser sauce

Brown the Beef:

Heat olive oil in a large nonstick pan over medium-high Add the beef and cook breaking it up with a spatula This takes about seven minutes Keep stirring until it is deeply browned and crumbly

Build the Flavor Base:

Sprinkle over sweet paprika Italian herbs salt and pepper Let the beef and spices cook for an extra two minutes until fragrant Then add the diced onion and sauté for three minutes letting it get soft and translucent

Layer in the Veggies and Tomato Paste:

Add in bell peppers garlic and tomato paste Cook for three minutes until peppers start to soften and everything is coated with the tomato paste The pan should smell incredible

Create the Creamy Sauce:

Pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream Stir well to combine Bring it to a gentle simmer then cover and cook on low for five minutes This melds all the flavors and reduces slightly

Finish with Spinach and Cheese:

Fold in the spinach leaves and cook stirring until just wilted Then scatter in the grated cheese Stir until smooth and everything is creamy

Combine with Pasta and Serve:

Toss in the cooked pasta mixing well to coat everything in the sauce Taste for seasoning and adjust Salt pepper or even a pinch more cheese if you love it extra rich Serve hot straight from the pan

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My favorite ingredient here is the sweet paprika It adds just enough warmth and earthiness to bring the sauce together I remember the last family birthday when every plate was scraped clean and everyone went back for seconds

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Whole wheat or gluten-free options also work great.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

→ Can I substitute the ground beef?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even plant-based mince as an alternative to ground beef.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, milk, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, sprinkle in chili flakes, fresh chopped chilies, or a pinch of cayenne pepper while sautéing the beef.