Description
This Creamy Italian Spaghetti with Ground Beef is a comforting and flavorful pasta dish featuring a rich tomato and beef sauce blended perfectly with a creamy cheese sauce. The combination of ground beef, aromatic herbs, and a smooth cheese blend makes it a satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Spaghetti:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz spaghetti
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside to use later.
- Brown the ground beef: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet with the ground beef and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Simmer the tomato sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce heat to low and simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
- Prepare the creamy cheese sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and milk. Stir occasionally until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Melt mozzarella: Once the cream cheese mixture is smooth, stir in the grated mozzarella cheese until it melts and the sauce is well combined.
- Combine sauces and pasta: Pour the creamy cheese sauce into the skillet with the meat tomato sauce and mix thoroughly. Then gently fold in the cooked spaghetti, tossing to coat each strand evenly with the creamy beef sauce. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until everything is well incorporated.
- Serve: Dish out the creamy Italian spaghetti hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add crushed chili peppers.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use gluten-free spaghetti if you need a gluten-free version.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Adding fresh basil instead of dried herbs can enhance freshness if preferred.
