Cheesy Beef Spaghetti in Savory Garlic Cheddar Butter Cream Recipe
Looking for the best Cheesy Beef Spaghetti recipe? This rich and comforting pasta combines perfectly seasoned ground beef with tender spaghetti in a velvety garlic cheddar butter cream sauce. Finished with Parmesan, fresh parsley, and plenty of melted cheese, this family-friendly dinner is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy garlic cheddar sauce
Hearty seasoned ground beef
Ready in under 45 minutes
One-pan sauce with simple ingredients
Perfect comfort food
Family favorite dinner
⏱️ Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 720 kcal per serving
Protein: 36 g per serving
🛒 Ingredients
For the Pasta
12 oz (340 g) spaghetti 🍝
Salt, for boiling water
For the Beef
1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef 🥩
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely diced 🧅
4 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
For the Garlic Cheddar Butter Cream Sauce
3 tablespoons unsalted butter 🧈
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk 🥛
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese 🧀
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Garnish
Fresh parsley, chopped 🌿
Extra Parmesan cheese
Cracked black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the spaghetti until al dente, according to the package instructions.
Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
Stir in:
Onion
Garlic
Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Season with:
Italian seasoning
Smoked paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Transfer the beef to a plate.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Cheddar Butter Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth.
Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened.
Stir in:
Cheddar cheese
Parmesan cheese
Dijon mustard
Onion powder
Cayenne pepper (optional)
Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked beef to the skillet.
Add the cooked spaghetti.
Toss until evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
If needed, stir in a little reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Step 5: Finish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and cracked black pepper.
Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
Garlic bread
Caesar salad
Roasted broccoli
Steamed green beans
Sautéed mushrooms
Roasted asparagus
Sparkling lemonade
💡 Chef’s Tips
Freshly shred the cheddar cheese for the smoothest sauce.
Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue to absorb sauce after mixing.
Add a splash of pasta water for an extra silky consistency.
For extra richness, finish with a small pat of butter before serving.
🧊 Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months, although cream sauces may separate slightly after thawing.
Reheating: Warm gently over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture.
🥗 Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 720 kcal
Protein: 36 g
Carbohydrates: 49 g
Fat: 42 g
Saturated Fat: 22 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 840 mg
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes. Fettuccine, penne, rigatoni, rotini, or linguine all work beautifully with the creamy cheddar sauce.
Can I substitute the ground beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, Italian sausage, or even plant-based meat alternatives are great options.
Why should I reserve pasta water?
The starchy pasta water helps the sauce cling to the spaghetti and creates a silky, restaurant-style finish.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the sauce and beef in advance, then cook the pasta fresh and combine everything just before serving for the best texture.
