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One-Pot Creamy Beef and Spinach Alfredo served in a bowl with fresh spinach

One-Pot Creamy Beef and Spinach Alfredo

A cozy, creamy one-pot meal that combines ground beef, pasta, and fresh spinach in a rich Alfredo sauce for a comforting dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter Use unsalted butter to control salt.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic for bigger flavor.
  • 1.5 cups heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half plus a spoon of butter.
  • 0.5 cups chicken or beef broth
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened Room temperature cream cheese blends easier.
  • 0.75 cups grated Parmesan cheese Keep extra for topping.
  • 0.5 cups shredded mozzarella Optional ingredient.
  • 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes Optional for a kick.
  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • Extra Parmesan (for garnish)
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • Black pepper (for garnish) Adjust to taste.

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium-high heat.
  2. Add 1 lb ground beef, season with salt and black pepper, and cook until browned and fragrant.
  3. Drain excess grease if needed.
  4. Push the beef to the side. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until aromatic; do not let it burn.
  5. Add 12 oz pasta, 1/2 cup broth, and 1 cup heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook according to pasta package directions until al dente.
  6. Lower the heat and stir in 4 oz softened cream cheese; whisk until smooth.
  7. Add 3/4 cup Parmesan, 1/2 cup mozzarella (if using), and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, stirring until the sauce is velvety and slightly thickened.
  8. Fold in 2 cups fresh spinach and stir for 1–2 minutes until just wilted.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan, chopped parsley, and black pepper.

Notes

If making ahead, cook through step 4, cool, and refrigerate. Reheat slowly with a splash of cream. Common mistake: if the sauce is too thin, simmer uncovered to reduce and thicken. For depth, stir in smoked paprika.