If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food dinner that brings together rich Italian flavors, you’ll absolutely love this Creamy Italian Spaghetti with Ground Beef. Imagine al dente spaghetti generously coated in a lush, cheesy tomato sauce brimming with juicy ground beef, all crowned with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This dish is the definition of cozy meets vibrant—a weeknight winner that tastes like a restaurant indulgence but is so effortless to make at home, you’ll want it in your regular rotation. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines familiar pantry staples in a way that feels luxurious and utterly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Creamy Italian Spaghetti with Ground Beef has a special job—whether it’s building up the savory depth, adding irresistible creaminess, or providing that classic Italian zing. These pantry and fridge staples come together in harmony, making each forkful something to savor. Here’s what you’ll need and why each piece matters:
- Spaghetti (12 oz): The perfect pasta shape for twirling and soaking up that irresistible creamy sauce.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a touch of fruity richness for sautéing both beef and onions to perfection.
- Ground Beef (1 pound): The heart of the dish—juicy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying when browned.
- Yellow Onion, finely chopped (1 small): Gives the sauce underlying sweetness and aromatic depth.
- Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Delivers that unmistakable Italian fragrance and layers of flavor.
- Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): Instantly transports your sauce with a balanced blend of herbs.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For a spicy edge—use as much or as little as your tastebuds like!
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for enhancing every single ingredient, especially the tomatoes and cheese.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a warm bite and rounds out the flavors.
- Diced Tomatoes (1 14.5 oz can): Bring a chunky, sweet-tart pop that forms the base of the sauce.
- Tomato Sauce (1/2 cup): Ensures a silky texture and that iconic Italian color.
- Cream Cheese (4 oz): The secret weapon for an ultra-creamy, slightly tangy sauce that hugs every strand.
- Heavy Cream (1/4 cup): Adds even more richness and a lovely smooth finish.
- Parmesan Cheese, grated (1/2 cup): Brings irresistible nutty depth and melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Fresh Parsley, chopped: For bright, herbaceous flavor and a finishing touch of color.
How to Make Creamy Italian Spaghetti with Ground Beef
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil, then drop in your spaghetti. Cook it just until al dente—this is when it still has a pleasant bite—so it can soak up all the delicious flavors of the sauce later. Drain and set aside, giving it a quick toss with a touch of olive oil if you don’t want the noodles to stick together.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium warmth, then crumble in your ground beef. Let it cook for about 5–6 minutes, breaking it up as you go, until beautifully browned and no longer pink. This step is where those delicious meaty bits develop a robust flavor, making Creamy Italian Spaghetti with Ground Beef so satisfying.
Step 3: Soften the Onion and Garlic
Once the beef is browned, stir in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for another 3–4 minutes, letting them soften and become fragrant. This trio creates the aromatic backbone of the dish, so don’t rush this part—it’s what gives the sauce its cozy, all-day-simmered flavor.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Add your Italian seasoning, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir so those spices coat the beef and vegetables. Next, pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Simmer together for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the sauce begin to thicken.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
Reduce the heat to low, then add your cream cheese, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan. Stir gently and watch as the sauce transforms into a dreamy, smooth mixture—this is the magic that puts the “creamy” in Creamy Italian Spaghetti with Ground Beef! Be patient; the cream cheese will melt away and everything will come together into a luscious sauce.
Step 6: Bring It All Together
Add your cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet, tossing it well to ensure every strand gets coated in that dreamy sauce. Let it cook together for 2–3 more minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb all that flavor. Finish by sprinkling over plenty of chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch.
How to Serve Creamy Italian Spaghetti with Ground Beef
Garnishes
A shower of extra grated Parmesan is never a bad idea—try shaving it over the top for a dramatic look! Don’t forget a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley to bring a pop of color and brightness to the plate. For a little kick, a dash of crushed red pepper can really light things up.
Side Dishes
Pair your Creamy Italian Spaghetti with Ground Beef with homemade garlic bread for dunking and a simple green salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette. Roasted veggies or a caprese salad make fabulous partners too, balancing the richness of the pasta with something crisp and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family-style vibe, serve the spaghetti straight from the skillet at the table. Or, for dinner party flair, twirl neat nests of spaghetti onto plates with tongs and finish each with a little extra sauce and a parsley flourish. Mini ramekins are adorable for individual servings at parties—just top with Parmesan and broil for a golden crust!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep Creamy Italian Spaghetti with Ground Beef tasting fresh, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and pop them into the refrigerator. The flavors just keep getting better overnight, making lunchtime the next day something to look forward to. It’ll stay tasty for up to three days.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze portions of this dish for future dinners. Just cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and label with the date. When you’re ready for a heat-and-eat meal, thaw it in the fridge overnight—easy as can be.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce needs loosening up. Stir frequently and warm just until hot. The sauce might thicken a bit after chilling, but a touch of cream brings it right back to velvety perfection.
FAQs
Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground Italian sausage is fantastic for extra flavor, or use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter take. Vegetarian? Try crumbled plant-based “beef” for delicious results.
What pasta shapes work best if I don’t have spaghetti?
Fettuccine, linguine, or even penne all work well for this creamy sauce. Just aim for pasta that can hold onto plenty of the luscious, cheesy goodness.
Can I make Creamy Italian Spaghetti with Ground Beef ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep! Assemble as directed, cool, and store in the fridge. The sauce may thicken upon standing, so add a splash of milk or cream when reheating.
What can I use in place of cream cheese?
Mascarpone or ricotta cheese both work beautifully and give their own unique twist to the sauce—mascarpone for extra richness, ricotta for a lighter touch. Just remember, the sauce texture will change a bit, but it’ll still be delicious!
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Just increase the crushed red pepper flakes or even add a pinch of cayenne pepper when seasoning. A finishing drizzle of spicy olive oil can also turn up the heat for those who crave extra kick.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know just how easy and rewarding it is to make Creamy Italian Spaghetti with Ground Beef, I can’t wait for you to give it a try. This dish brings together everything comforting about Italian cooking, right in your own kitchen. Invite family or friends, gather around, and treat yourselves to a meal that’ll quickly become a beloved favorite!
Print
Creamy Italian Spaghetti with Ground Beef Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a comforting and flavorful dish with this Creamy Italian Spaghetti with Ground Beef recipe. This one-pan pasta is rich and satisfying, combining tender spaghetti with a creamy, savory sauce loaded with ground beef and Italian seasonings.
Ingredients
Spaghetti:
- 12 oz spaghetti
Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Boil spaghetti until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic. Season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cream cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan. Simmer until creamy.
- Combine and Serve: Toss cooked spaghetti in the sauce until coated. Cook briefly to meld flavors. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
- Try using ground Italian sausage for added flavor.
- Experiment with mascarpone or ricotta instead of cream cheese.
- Pair with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.
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