Need a cozy weeknight dinner that’s comforting, quick, and secretly packed with nutrients? This One Pan Healthy Ground Beef Pasta is your new go-to. With a flavorful blend of lean ground beef, tender pasta shells, fresh tomatoes, and vibrant greens, it’s the kind of meal that hits every mark—hearty, healthy, and hassle-free.

Everything comes together in one skillet, which means fewer dishes and more time to unwind. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers on both flavor and nutrition without overwhelming your schedule.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best in This Recipe?

For this one-pan dish, pasta shells or orecchiette are ideal because they catch the bits of ground beef and veggies in every bite. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free options based on your dietary needs. Just remember to adjust the liquid slightly depending on the pasta type to ensure everything cooks evenly.

Ingredients for the One Pan Healthy Ground Beef Pasta

Lean Ground Beef – Provides protein and rich flavor, while staying light on fat.
Pasta Shells – Perfect for cradling the sauce and beef in each scoop.
Fresh Tomatoes – Juicy and slightly acidic, they balance the richness of the meat.
Garlic – Adds depth and aromatic flavor.
Onion – Offers sweetness and a savory base to the dish.
Low-Sodium Beef Broth – Helps cook the pasta and infuses it with extra flavor.
Olive Oil – Used for sautéing and adding healthy fats.
Kale or Spinach – A burst of green that brings nutrients and color.
Salt & Pepper – For seasoning to taste.
Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) – For a touch of heat if you like things spicy.

How To Make the One Pan Healthy Ground Beef Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the lean ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the chopped fresh tomatoes and pour in the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Stir in the Pasta

Add the pasta shells directly into the skillet. Stir well so they’re evenly coated and submerged. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Fold in the Greens

Once the pasta is cooked, fold in chopped kale or spinach. Stir until wilted and bright green, about 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Remove from heat and serve immediately. Optionally, top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor.

Best Way to Serve and Store This One Pan Healthy Ground Beef Pasta

Serve this dish hot, straight from the skillet for maximum flavor and texture. It’s perfect as a stand-alone meal thanks to its protein, carbs, and veggies all in one bowl. Add a sprinkle of shredded parmesan or a drizzle of chili oil for an extra punch. For a family dinner, pair it with a side salad or crusty bread.

To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of broth to bring back its saucy goodness. This recipe also freezes well for up to a month—just defrost overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and still works beautifully with the same flavors.

What type of greens work best?

Kale and spinach are both great. Kale holds up well for meal prep, while spinach wilts faster and blends in seamlessly.

Do I have to cook the pasta separately?

Nope! That’s the beauty of this one-pan recipe. The pasta cooks right in the pan, absorbing all the savory flavors.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and monitor it closely during cooking since some varieties cook faster.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Very! The familiar pasta and beef combo is usually a hit with little ones. You can always skip the red pepper flakes to keep it mild.

How can I make this dairy-free?

This recipe is already dairy-free unless you add cheese on top. Just skip any optional cheese garnish to keep it dairy-free.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If this One Pan Healthy Ground Beef Pasta is a staple in your home now, you’ll definitely want to check out these comforting and creative pasta recipes:

One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for a richer, indulgent twist.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli—cheesy, cozy, and full of flavor.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce if you love Philly-inspired dishes.
Red Pepper Rigatoni for a bold, creamy pop of heat and color.
Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli for a veggie-packed dinner you can feel great about.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s just a click away next time you need a quick, nourishing meal.

And I’d love to hear how it went! Did you use kale or spinach? Whole wheat pasta or classic shells? Drop a comment and let’s swap tips.

Looking for more fresh, feel-good recipes like this? Follow me on Pinterest at Life with Jam where I share daily easy dinners and creative spins on classics.