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Ricotta Spinach Beef Pasta

Ricotta Spinach Beef Pasta
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Ricotta Spinach Beef Pasta is a comforting, healthy, and easy-to-make dish that combines creamy ricotta cheese, savory ground beef, fresh spinach, and pasta. This vibrant and flavorful meal is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, and leftovers, offering a perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Vegetables

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese (preferably whole-milk)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Pasta and Sauces

  • 12 oz pasta of choice (penne or rigatoni recommended)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices

Seasonings and Oils

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water for later if needed to loosen the sauce.
  2. Cook the Beef and Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and add finely chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, then add the ground beef. Cook, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning during cooking to build flavor.
  3. Add Spinach and Tomatoes: Once the beef is cooked, stir in fresh spinach until wilted. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, letting the mixture simmer for a few minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce slightly thickens.
  4. Combine Ricotta and Pasta: Lower the heat and fold in dollops of ricotta cheese, gently mixing to create a creamy sauce. Toss in your cooked pasta and stir well to coat everything evenly. Use reserved pasta water to loosen sauce if it feels too thick.
  5. Serve and Garnish: Plate the pasta, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan if desired, and add a little extra cracked pepper or fresh herbs for a final touch before serving.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the spinach to preserve its vibrant color and nutrients.
  • Use whole-milk ricotta for creaminess and richness.
  • Brown the beef well to enhance the flavor through the Maillard reaction.
  • Adjust seasoning gradually by tasting as you go to avoid over- or under-seasoning.
  • Reserve pasta water to help bind the sauce and pasta perfectly without watering down.

Nutrition

Keywords: ricotta, spinach, beef, pasta, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, healthy pasta

Find it online: https://eazyummy.com/ricotta-spinach-beef-pasta/