Cheesy Beef Spaghetti Skillet

Cheesy Beef Spaghetti Skillet

Introduction

This Cheesy Beef Spaghetti Skillet is the perfect comfort meal — hearty, creamy, and packed with rich flavor. Tender spaghetti noodles are tossed with perfectly seasoned ground beef, simmered in a zesty tomato sauce, and finished with gooey melted cheese. It’s a one-pan dinner that’s quick, satisfying, and guaranteed to please the whole family. This dish combines the best of Italian-inspired flavor with the soul of a home-cooked meal — simple, warm, and irresistibly cheesy.

Ingredients

For the Beef and Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 pound (450 g) ground beef

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

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• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes

• 1 can (8 oz / 225 g) tomato sauce

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon salt

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• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)

• 1 cup beef broth or water

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti (uncooked)

• 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (for creamier texture)

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Beef:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

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2. Add Onion and Garlic:
   Stir in the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Build the Sauce:
   Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well and bring to a simmer.

4. Add the Spaghetti:
   Break the spaghetti noodles in half and add them directly to the skillet. Push the noodles down into the sauce so they’re mostly covered. Cover the pan and simmer on medium-low heat for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.

5. Add Cream and Cheese:
   Once the pasta is tender, stir in the heavy cream (or milk) and half of the shredded cheese. Stir until creamy and well combined.

6. Finish with Cheese:
   Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top. Cover for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese melts beautifully. You can also place the skillet under the broiler for 1–2 minutes for a golden cheesy crust.

7. Garnish and Serve:
   Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot straight from the skillet.

Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Beef Spaghetti Skillet pairs perfectly with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables. It’s also a fantastic dish to serve family-style — just place the skillet in the center of the table and let everyone dig in!

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess. You can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months — thaw overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Beef Spaghetti Skillet is a family-friendly dinner that’s both comforting and effortless. Every bite bursts with hearty beef, tender pasta, and rich, melted cheese — the perfect mix of flavors and textures. Ready in under 30 minutes and made in one pan, it’s the ideal go-to meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. A delicious, cheesy twist on traditional spaghetti that will quickly become a favorite at your table.