Quick Description
This one-pan cheesy ground beef spaghetti combines tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It’s rich, filling, and perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving ultimate comfort food.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 4–6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: ~35 minutes
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti (regular or whole wheat)
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for leaner option)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- ½ cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1 – Cook Pasta
- Boil spaghetti in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2 – Cook Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add ground beef, cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3 – Make Sauce
- Stir in diced tomatoes, marinara, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer 10 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4 – Combine Pasta & Sauce
- Add drained spaghetti into the skillet. Toss to coat evenly with sauce.
Step 5 – Add Cheese
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Cover with a lid and let it melt for 2–3 minutes.
Step 6 – Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve hot straight from the skillet.
Additional Notes
- You can make this with penne, rigatoni, or any pasta you prefer.
- For extra richness, stir in ½ cup heavy cream or cream cheese before adding pasta.
- Add veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
Dietary Info
- High-protein from beef & cheese
- Kid-friendly
- Can be made gluten-free with GF pasta
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Spicy Kick: Add red chili flakes or hot sauce.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Use taco seasoning instead of Italian seasoning and top with jalapeños.
- Protein Boost: Use chickpea or lentil pasta for extra protein.
- Meal Prep: Store in containers for 3–4 days, reheats well in the microwave.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days.
- Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in skillet with a splash of broth.
