Description: This Creamy Italian Spaghetti with Ground Beef is a comforting and flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It combines savory ground beef with classic Italian flavors, all simmered in a creamy tomato sauce with spaghetti. Quick, easy, and delicious!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 8 oz spaghetti (uncooked, broken in half)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by finely dicing the onion and mincing the garlic. Having these aromatics prepped and ready to go will streamline the cooking process. Also, break the spaghetti strands in half. This makes it easier to manage in the pot and ensures they cook evenly. Set aside all the ingredients.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the ground beef to the pot. Season generously with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Break the ground beef apart with a spoon or spatula as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, usually about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pot to avoid a greasy final dish.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Tomatoes
Pour the beef broth into the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. These bits add depth and flavor to the sauce. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained) to the pot. Stir everything together to combine, ensuring the ground beef is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti
Add the broken spaghetti to the pot, pressing down slightly so that it is mostly submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom and burning. The pasta should be cooked through, and most of the liquid absorbed.
Step 5: Add Cream and Parmesan
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer uncovered for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce is creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to suit your preferences.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! First and foremost, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means minimal cleanup. It’s incredibly convenient for busy weeknights when time is of the essence. The creamy tomato sauce is rich and comforting, perfectly complementing the savory ground beef and perfectly cooked spaghetti. The addition of Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes adds a delicious depth of flavor. It’s also a versatile dish; you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheeses. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
- Offer additional grated Parmesan cheese at the table.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
- Pair with a glass of red wine for a complete Italian meal.
- For a heartier meal, serve alongside steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans.
Tips:
- Don’t skip browning the ground beef. It adds a ton of flavor to the dish.
- Stir the spaghetti frequently while cooking to prevent it from sticking.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
- Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- For a richer sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrients.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to thin it out.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
Calories: Approximately 540 kcal
Protein: Approximately 35g
Sodium: Approximately 800mg
Conclusion
Creamy Italian Spaghetti with Ground Beef is more than just a recipe; it’s a simple, satisfying meal that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Its one-pot convenience makes it perfect for busy weeknights, while its rich, creamy sauce and savory ingredients ensure a delightful dining experience. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and enjoy a delicious, homemade Italian meal in just 30 minutes!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef in this recipe. Keep in mind that ground turkey and chicken tend to be leaner, so you may need to add a little extra olive oil to prevent sticking during browning. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
Q2: What if I don’t have heavy cream? Can I use something else?
A: Yes, you can substitute half-and-half or even milk for heavy cream. Keep in mind that the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy, especially if using milk, but it will still be flavorful. You can also add a tablespoon of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Q3: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A: Definitely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of this dish. Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, and carrots are all excellent additions. Add them to the pot when you’re browning the ground beef.
Q4: How do I prevent the spaghetti from sticking to the bottom of the pot?
A: Stirring the spaghetti frequently while it cooks is crucial to prevent sticking. Make sure the spaghetti is mostly submerged in the liquid, and reduce the heat to medium-low to avoid scorching. If the spaghetti still sticks, add a little more beef broth or water.
Q5: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While this recipe is best served fresh, you can make it ahead of time. The pasta may absorb more of the sauce as it sits, so you might need to add a little more beef broth or water when reheating. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
