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- 8 ounces penne or rotini pasta - 1 pound ground beef - 4 cups fresh spinach - 1 medium onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes - 1 cup beef broth - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - Salt and pepper to taste - Olive oil for sautéing

One-Pan Cheesy Beef and Spinach Pasta

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Beef & Spinach Pasta Bake! This easy-to-make dish features ground beef, creamy cheeses, and fresh spinach, all baked together with tender pasta. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it combines rich flavors and nutritious ingredients for a satisfying meal. Get ready to bring everyone together around the table with this hearty, flavorful bake that’s sure to become a family favorite!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or rotini work well)

1 lb (450g) ground beef

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 tsp Italian seasoning

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

1 cup beef broth

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or a deep sauté pan over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook until it turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

    Brown the Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pan. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. If you’re using red pepper flakes, add them here as well.

      Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and beef broth. Stir well to combine everything.

        Toss in the Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the pan, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pan. Let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

          Stir in the Spinach: Once the pasta is cooked, add the chopped spinach to the pan. Stir until the spinach wilts and is well incorporated.

            Cheesify It: Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top. Replace the lid for a few minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.

              Serve: Gently stir to combine the melted cheeses with the pasta. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings