Creamy Italian Spaghetti and Ground Beef One Pot Meal Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a hearty, comforting meal that comes together in just one pot—less cleanup, fewer dishes, and a quicker path to enjoying delicious food. Enter the Creamy Italian Spaghetti and Ground Beef One Pot Meal: a flavorful, satisfying dish that combines the rustic heartiness of ground beef with tender spaghetti, all enveloped in a rich, creamy Italian-inspired sauce. This recipe offers the perfect balance of convenience and indulgence, making it a go-to weeknight dinner for busy families, novice cooks, or anyone craving a taste of Italy without the fuss.

What makes this one-pot meal truly special is its fusion of classic Italian flavors with a creamy twist. Instead of the usual tomato-only sauce, the addition of cream creates a luscious texture that coats every strand of spaghetti and bite of beef. Garlic, onions, Italian herbs, and a hint of cheese elevate the dish, creating layers of flavor that feel both familiar and exciting. The ground beef brings protein and richness, while the pasta serves as the comforting, carb-filled base that ties everything together.

This recipe is designed to be straightforward yet flexible. Using just one pot means less time spent washing dishes and more time enjoying the meal. It’s perfect for weeknights when time is short but you want something hearty, or for casual gatherings where you need a crowd-pleaser that can be made with minimal effort. Plus, it’s easy to customize—add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition, swap out the beef for turkey or sausage, or adjust the creaminess level to your preference.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk through each step carefully: selecting the best ingredients, cooking the ground beef to savory perfection, preparing the pasta just right in the same pot, and crafting the creamy Italian sauce that brings everything together in harmony. Along the way, you’ll find tips on timing, seasoning, and making the dish your own. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or trying your hand at a one-pot meal for the first time, this recipe promises delicious results with minimal stress.

Get ready to experience a cozy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying Italian-inspired meal that’s as easy to make as it is to love. Let’s dive into the world of creamy Italian spaghetti and ground beef—where every forkful is a celebration of comfort and flavor.

Step 1: Ingredients and Preparation

1.1 Ingredients List

For the Ground Beef and Sauce:

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef (preferably 80% lean for flavor and juiciness)

• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced

• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

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

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 can (14 ounces/400g) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce

• 4 cups beef broth or low-sodium stock

• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (for creaminess)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish

• 8 ounces (about half a standard box) spaghetti (break in half for easier cooking in pot)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup chopped bell peppers or mushrooms (for added veggies)

• Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish

1.2 Equipment Needed

• Large deep skillet or Dutch oven with lid

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Knife and cutting board

• Grater for cheese

• Tongs or pasta fork

Step 2: Cooking the Ground Beef and Aromatics

2.1 Heat the Oil and Sauté the Aromatics

• Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in your large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering.

• Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.

• Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

2.2 Brown the Ground Beef

• Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.

• Cook for about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and no longer pink.

• Season with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes.

• Stir well to combine and cook for another 1–2 minutes to let the spices bloom.

Step 3: Adding Liquids and Pasta

3.1 Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth

• Pour in the crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce) and stir to combine.

• Add the beef broth gradually, stirring as you pour.

• Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

3.2 Add the Spaghetti

• Break the spaghetti strands in half for easier cooking and add directly to the pot.

• Stir to submerge the pasta in the liquid, making sure it doesn’t stick together.

• Cover the pot with a lid and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Creating the Creamy Sauce

4.1 Add the Cream

• Once the pasta is almost tender (check by tasting around 8–10 minutes), stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.

• Continue to simmer uncovered for another 3–5 minutes, stirring gently to allow the sauce to thicken and coat the pasta evenly.

4.2 Finish with Parmesan

• Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated.

• Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Italian herbs if needed.

Step 5: Serving and Garnishing

• Once the pasta is creamy, tender, and the sauce is thick, remove from heat.

• Spoon portions onto plates or bowls.

• Garnish generously with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or basil if desired.

• Serve immediately with crusty bread or a simple side salad.