Creamy Garlic and Herb Spaghetti
Table of contents
Intro
If your family loves spaghetti night but you’re looking for a simple way to change things up, this Creamy Garlic and Herb Spaghetti is about to become a new favorite. Everything cooks together in one pan, including the pasta, which means less cleanup and more flavor.
The addition of garlic and herb cheese creates a rich, creamy sauce without making the dish feel overly heavy. It still has all the classic flavors you expect from a hearty spaghetti dinner, but with a delicious garlic herb twist that takes it to the next level. Serve it with a fresh salad, garlic bread, and plenty of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an easy weeknight meal that feels a little extra special.
And while you are here check out these other great recipes!
Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti with Alfredo and Meat Sauce
Better Than Olive Garden Fettucine Alfredo
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Everything cooks in one pan for easy cleanup.
- Rich and creamy without feeling heavy.
- Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Made with simple, easy-to-find ingredients.
- Full of classic spaghetti flavor with a creamy garlic herb twist.
- Great for leftovers.
- Easy to customize with your favorite proteins and vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef – adds hearty flavor and protein.
- ½ cup diced onion – brings sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- ½ cup diced green bell pepper – adds freshness and texture.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – gives the dish classic Italian flavor.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste – deepens and enriches the sauce.
- 24 ounces marinara sauce – the flavorful base of the dish.
- 8 ounces spaghetti noodles, broken in half – cooks directly in the sauce for maximum flavor.
- 2 cups beef broth – helps cook the pasta while adding richness.
- 2.65 ounces garlic and herb cheese (half of a 5.3-ounce package) – creates the creamy finish.
- Fresh chopped parsley, optional – adds color and freshness.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving.
How to Make Creamy Garlic and Herb Spaghetti
Start by browning the ground beef, onion, and green bell pepper in a deep 12-inch skillet over medium heat until the beef is fully cooked and the vegetables have softened. If desired, drain any excess grease before moving on.
Next, stir in the Italian seasoning. Create a small well in the center of the skillet and add the tomato paste. Let it cook for a few minutes, stirring frequently, until it darkens slightly and becomes fragrant. This simple step adds a deeper, richer flavor to the finished sauce.
Pour in the marinara sauce and stir everything together. Break the spaghetti noodles in half and lay them on top of the sauce mixture. Pour the beef broth over the noodles, making sure they are mostly submerged in the liquid.
Bring everything to a gentle boil, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together. The pasta will absorb the flavorful broth and sauce as it cooks.
Once the spaghetti is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stir in the garlic and herb cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has completely melted into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture.
Finish with fresh parsley if desired and serve with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a simple salad, and warm garlic bread.
Tips for Success
- Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent sticking.
- If the sauce becomes too thick before the pasta is fully cooked, add a splash of additional broth.
- Taste before adding any extra salt. Depending on the marinara sauce and broth you use, you may not need any.
- Freshly grated Parmesan adds the best flavor and texture.
- For an even creamier sauce, use the entire package of garlic and herb cheese.
Variations and Substitutions
- Swap the ground beef for Italian sausage for a richer flavor.
- Use ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter option.
- Add sliced mushrooms along with the onions and peppers.
- Stir in fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Use a different flavor of soft cheese spread to create your own variation.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and place under the broiler for a few minutes for a cheesy baked-style finish.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy pasta pairs perfectly with:
- Garlic bread
- Breadsticks
- Caesar salad
- Garden salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Green Beans
If you do make this recipe, please leave a comment and a rating! I love hearing from you and it helps so much! Thank you!
Creamy Garlic and Herb Spaghetti
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 1/2 Cup Yellow Onion, Diced
- 1/2 Cup Green Bell Pepper, diced
- 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning
- 1 tbsp Tomato Paste
- 24 oz Marinara or Spaghetti Sauce just use your favorite brand
- 8 oz Spaghetti Noodles, broken in half
- 2 Cups Beef Broth
- 2.65 oz Boursin Garlic and Herb Cheese
- 1-2 tsp Chopped Fresh Parsley optional for garnis
- Parmesan Cheese optional for serving
Instructions
- In a deep 12-inch skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and green pepper until the beef is browned and the vegetables are softened. Drain excess grease if desired.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning.
- Create a well in the center of the skillet and add the tomato paste. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Stir in the marinara sauce.
- Place the broken spaghetti noodles on top of the sauce.
- Pour the beef broth over the noodles and make sure they are all submerged.
- Bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the pasta is tender, stir in the garlic and herb cheese until completely melted and creamy.
- Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. To freeze, allow the spaghetti to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe airtight container. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The texture of the pasta may soften slightly after freezing, but it will still be delicious.Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes. Penne, rotini, or other short pasta shapes work well. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
What kind of marinara sauce works best?
Any good-quality marinara will work. Roasted garlic marinara is especially delicious in this recipe because it complements the garlic and herb cheese beautifully.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making leftovers just as delicious the next day.
Can I use the entire package of garlic and herb cheese?
Absolutely. Using the full package will create an even richer and creamier sauce.
Do I need to add salt?
Maybe not. Many marinara sauces, broths, and Parmesan cheeses already contain enough salt. Taste before adding any extra.
