Cheesy Beef Spaghetti Skillet is the kind of comforting, one-pan meal that brings everyone to the table fast. Loaded with tender spaghetti, seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and a rich, savory sauce, this dish combines the heartiness of a classic pasta dinner with the indulgent appeal of a creamy, cheesy bake—without the oven. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a satisfying homemade meal that feels both familiar and irresistible.
This recipe delivers bold flavor, creamy texture, and just the right balance of meat, pasta, and cheese. Everything cooks together in one skillet, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully while keeping cleanup minimal.
Why This Cheesy Beef Spaghetti Is So Popular
This dish has all the elements people love in comfort food. It’s filling, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. The combination of beef and cheese with long strands of spaghetti creates a rich, cohesive meal that feels cozy and indulgent without being complicated.
What makes it a favorite:
- One-pan preparation
- Creamy, cheesy texture
- Hearty and filling
- Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
- Perfect leftovers
It’s a reliable recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients
- 400 g spaghetti
- 500 g ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
How to Make Cheesy Beef Spaghetti Skillet
Step 1: Cook the spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside. Do not overcook, as the pasta will continue to soften in the sauce.
Step 2: Brown the beef
Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Build the flavor base
Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the beef. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Create the sauce
Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes. Stir well and let the sauce simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Make it creamy
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Mix until fully incorporated and smooth. The sauce should now be rich and creamy.
Step 6: Combine pasta and cheese
Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet. Toss gently until the pasta is fully coated with sauce. Sprinkle in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and stretchy.
Step 7: Finish and serve
Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use freshly grated cheese for smoother melting
- Don’t overcook the pasta
- Simmer the sauce gently to avoid separation
- Adjust cheese quantity for extra creaminess
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Beef Spaghetti Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with:
- Garlic bread or toast
- Simple green salad
- Steamed vegetables
- Roasted broccoli or zucchini
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk or broth
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may change texture
Variations to Try
- Spicy version: Add extra chili flakes or hot sauce
- Vegetable boost: Stir in mushrooms, corn, or spinach
- Different cheese: Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a cheese blend
- Lighter option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another pasta shape?
Yes. Penne, rotini, or fettuccine work well.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but it reheats well for next-day meals.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely. Simply skip the chili flakes for a milder flavor.
Cheesy Beef Spaghetti Skillet is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a reliable recipe that fits perfectly into any home-cooking routine. One bite and it’s easy to see why this dish becomes a household favorite.