Cheesy Beef Spaghetti with Garlic Cheddar Cream Recipe

When the craving for comfort food hits, this cheesy beef spaghetti with garlic cheddar cream is just what you need. It’s a delicious family-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with rich, creamy flavors that everyone will love. You’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again.

this Recipe

This cheesy beef spaghetti recipe combines hearty browned ground beef with a luscious garlic cheddar cream sauce, all tossed with tender spaghetti noodles. Whether you’re cooking for your family or a group of friends, it’s the perfect dish to warm bellies and hearts alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich, creamy garlic cheddar sauce that coats every strand of spaghetti beautifully.
• Hearty ground beef adds satisfying protein and flavor.
• Comforting and crowd-pleasing – great for family meals.
• Uses simple pantry staples you likely already have on hand.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to whip up your cheesy beef spaghetti with garlic cheddar cream. This recipe serves four generous portions.

• 12 ounces spaghetti noodles
• 1 pound lean ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 650 per serving

How to Make Cheesy Beef Spaghetti with Garlic Cheddar Cream: Easy Comfort Food for Family Meals

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Remove beef from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the butter and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is golden and bubbly.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with remaining salt if needed.
7. Add the cooked ground beef back to the sauce and stir to combine.
8. Toss the cooked spaghetti noodles into the skillet with the cheesy beef sauce, stirring gently to coat the noodles evenly.
9. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for a smoother sauce.
• Don’t overcook the spaghetti; al dente provides the best texture to hold the sauce.
• Be sure to whisk the milk in slowly to prevent lumps in the cream sauce.
• For a little extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of milk to loosen it up.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk and warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to restore creaminess.

You can freeze the cheesy beef spaghetti in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on low heat. Avoid microwaving straight from frozen for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute spaghetti with penne, fettuccine, or even elbow macaroni. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and toss with the sauce as directed.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute to keep the same hearty texture and flavor.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make the garlic cheddar cream sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for 1-2 days. Reheat gently and add cooked beef and pasta when ready to serve.

What kind of cheese works best for the sauce?

Sharp cheddar provides great flavor, but you can blend in mozzarella for creaminess or add a bit of Parmesan for depth. Avoid pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents for a smoother sauce.