This creamy Italian ground beef spaghetti is a comfort food dream! You get flavorful beef, tender pasta, and a rich sauce all in one pot—easy peasy!
No one likes washing tons of dishes, right? With this recipe, you just cook everything together and enjoy a tasty meal without the mess. Perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use lean ground beef for this recipe, but you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, try crumbled plant-based meat or extra firm tofu for similar texture.
Pasta: Spaghetti is classic here, but you can use any pasta you prefer. Penne or fusilli work great too. If you want a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta; just adjust cooking times as needed.
Heavy Cream: I love the richness heavy cream adds, but you can replace it with half-and-half for a lighter sauce or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just ensure it blends well into the sauce!
Diced Tomatoes: If canned tomatoes aren’t available, fresh tomatoes work well. Use about 2-3 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes or substitute with crushed tomatoes for a more sauce-like consistency.
How Do You Make Sure the Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting pasta just right in this one-pot meal is key! Here are some steps to follow:
- Once you’ve added the spaghetti, ensure it’s submerged in the liquid to cook evenly.
- Keep an eye on the pot and stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
- Start checking for doneness around 12 minutes, until it’s al dente, which means tender but still has a slight bite.
You want that perfect texture, so taste-testing a strand will help you nail it! If you find it too dry, add a splash more broth or water to keep things creamy.
Creamy Italian Ground Beef Spaghetti One-Pot Meal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 8 ounces (about 2 cups) uncooked spaghetti, broken in half
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pot meal will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, you can enjoy your creamy spaghetti in about 30 minutes—perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large deep skillet or wide pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Cook it while breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s browned and no longer pink. If there’s extra fat, drain it off to avoid a greasy dish!
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
Next, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant. This adds great flavor to your dish!
3. Season the Mix:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Stir in the dried Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add Tomatoes and Broth:
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with their juice along with the beef broth. Stir everything together to combine—this will be the base of your sauce!
5. Cook the Spaghetti:
Now, immerse the broken spaghetti pieces into the pot, pressing them gently to ensure they’re submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Simmer to Perfection:
Cover the pot and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for the pasta to be cooked through and most of the liquid to be absorbed!
7. Make It Creamy:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. These will create that creamy, cheesy sauce we all love! Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is melted and combined.
8. Final Touches:
Give the dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. A delicious, creamy spaghetti is just around the corner!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once ready, garnish your meal with some fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve it hot. Enjoy every creamy bite of your hearty one-pot Italian ground beef spaghetti!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Spaghetti or Other Pasta Types?
Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti is a great alternative for added fiber. You can also use gluten-free pasta or any shape you like, such as penne or fusilli. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess.
Can I Add Vegetables?
Yes! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic at the beginning for the best results!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’d like a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free version, try coconut milk or a cashew cream. Just be aware that it may change the flavor slightly!
