Creamy Italian Spaghetti with Ground Beef

This Creamy Italian Spaghetti with Ground Beef is the perfect marriage of hearty flavors and comforting textures in a single bowl. The sauce is rich, velvety, and infused with the savory depth of Italian herbs, tomato, and tender ground beef, finished with a luscious blend of cream cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan. Every forkful of spaghetti is coated in this silky sauce, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day.

It’s a quick, family-friendly dinner that’s simple enough for busy weeknights but indulgent enough for a weekend treat. Whether you’re feeding kids who adore cheesy pasta or adults who appreciate Italian comfort food with a twist, this dish delivers in both flavor and satisfaction.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 12 oz spaghetti

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 small onion, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce

  • 1 cup beef broth

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened

  • ¼ cup heavy cream

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

  1. Cook the Pasta

    • In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook spaghetti according to package directions until just al dente.

    • Drain, set aside, and toss lightly with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

  2. Prepare the Beef Mixture

    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

    • Add chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.

    • Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  3. Brown the Meat

    • Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no pink remains.

    • Drain excess grease if necessary.

  4. Build the Sauce

    • Stir in marinara sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

    • Let simmer gently for 5 minutes.

  5. Make It Creamy

    • Reduce heat to low. Add cream cheese and stir until fully melted into the sauce.

    • Pour in heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth and velvety.

  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce

    • Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the sauce.

    • Toss well so every strand is coated.

    • Simmer on low for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

  7. Serve

    • Garnish with fresh parsley.

    • Serve hot with garlic bread or a crisp side salad.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: ~540 kcal per serving
Servings: 6

The Origin of Creamy Italian Spaghetti

While classic spaghetti alla Bolognese is a slow-simmered masterpiece from Italy, this creamy version is a comfort food innovation. It blends the robust flavors of a traditional Italian meat sauce with the luxurious creaminess of cream cheese and heavy cream, an American twist inspired by casseroles and pasta bakes.

It’s believed this adaptation became popular in Italian-American homes, especially in regions where rich, cheesy comfort dishes are a mealtime staple.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes.

  • Flavorful: Layers of seasoning from start to finish.

  • Creamy + Savory: Perfect balance of tomato tang, beef richness, and cheesy smoothness.

  • Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.

  • Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and inexpensive proteins.

Pro Tips for Success

  1. Slightly undercook the pasta so it finishes in the sauce.

  2. Use softened cream cheese to prevent clumps.

  3. Season in layers—meat, sauce, and final taste.

  4. Let the sauce simmer a few minutes for depth.

Variations

  • Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

  • Vegetarian: Swap beef for mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based crumbles.

  • Extra Cheesy: Top with mozzarella and bake for 10 minutes until bubbly.

  • Veggie Boost: Fold in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.

Make Ahead & Storage

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat with a splash of broth or milk.

  • Meal Prep: Perfect for lunches—stays creamy even after reheating.

Serving Ideas

Pair with:

  • Garlic bread or warm baguette.

  • Crisp green salad with vinaigrette.

  • Medium-bodied red wine (Chianti, Merlot) or sparkling water with lemon.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Italian Spaghetti with Ground Beef isn’t just dinner—it’s a hug in a bowl. It’s the kind of meal you make once, and it becomes a household regular. Rich without being heavy, easy without being boring, and comforting without being bland—it’s pasta perfection.