This creamy Italian spaghetti is a real winner! Made with ground beef, it’s all cooked in one pot, making clean-up a breeze. The creamy sauce wraps around the spaghetti for a comforting dish.
I love how this meal can be ready in no time. It’s perfect for busy days, and who doesn’t love a hearty spaghetti dinner? 🍝 Just cook it all together, and dinner is served!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star ingredient! Ground beef gives a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well too.
Spaghetti: I prefer regular spaghetti, but you can use whole wheat spaghetti or gluten-free pasta if you need alternatives. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they may vary.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you could substitute half-and-half or even use evaporated milk. If dairy-free is your goal, try coconut milk for a different flavor twist!
Cheese: Parmesan cheese adds a nice depth. Grated Pecorino Romano can be a great substitute, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version while still keeping that cheesy flavor.
How Can I Make Sure My Spaghetti Doesn’t Stick Together?
One common struggle is spaghetti clumping during cooking. To prevent this, ensure you stir the noodles occasionally as they cook. Here are some tips:
- Use plenty of liquid. The beef broth helps create steam that cooks and separates the noodles.
- Push the spaghetti down into the liquid to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Stir regularly, especially in the initial cooking phase. This keeps the pasta from sticking together or to the pot.
Creamy Italian Spaghetti with Ground Beef One-Pot Meal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (950 ml) beef broth
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti (broken in half)
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful one-pot meal will take about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to cook, making a total time of around 35-40 minutes. Perfect for a quick and comforting dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large deep skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up as it cooks. If it looks greasy, drain any excess fat and keep it healthy!
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Next, add the chopped onion to the beef and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for one more minute until you can smell that garlicky goodness!
3. Season the Meat Mixture:
Now, stir in the tomato paste, dried Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook this mix for about 1 minute to blend all those lovely flavors together.
4. Add Broth and Tomatoes:
Pour in the beef broth and the can of diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir everything together nicely to combine.
5. Cook the Spaghetti:
Add the broken spaghetti noodles into the pot. Gently press the noodles down into the liquid as best you can. Bring everything to a boil—watch it bubble!
6. Simmer Until Done:
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally so the spaghetti doesn’t stick together. You’ll know it’s done when the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
7. Make It Creamy:
Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until everything is creamy and dreamy! Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Let It Rest:
Remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for a couple of minutes. This will help it thicken up nicely!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the creamy spaghetti hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil if you like. Enjoy your comforting, delicious dish!
This one-pot creamy Italian spaghetti is not only flavorful but also a breeze to make. Perfect for any night when you crave a tasty meal without all the fuss!
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Italian Spaghetti with Ground Beef
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a lighter dish. Just be mindful that it may cook a little faster, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! You can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth. These alternatives will still provide great flavor. Just ensure it’s low-sodium if that’s your preference.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in a microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if it seems too thick.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can swap the ground beef for lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative, and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian version. Don’t forget the cream for the extra creaminess, or use a vegan cream option!
