Steps
Follow these steps to prepare creamy beef spaghetti:
1. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until it is browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
Once the beef is cooked, pour in the beef broth and bring it to a simmer. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly.
3. Cook the Pasta:
While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook until al dente, then drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the pasta cooking water.
4. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the beef and sauce. Toss everything together gently, adding a splash of the pasta cooking water if the sauce is too thick. Cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
Variations
There are many ways to customize and elevate the flavor of creamy beef spaghetti. Here are some variations you can try:
Vegetarian Option:
Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish.
Spicy Kick:
Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicier version of creamy beef spaghetti.
Extra Cheesy:
Sprinkle additional grated cheese on top of the cooked dish before serving for an extra cheesy experience.
Herb Infusion:
Experiment with different herbs and spices such as basil, thyme, or rosemary to add a fresh and aromatic twist to the dish.
Tips
Here are some tips to help you perfect your creamy beef spaghetti:
Cook Pasta Al Dente:
Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce, ensuring the perfect texture.
Season Generously:
Season each component of the dish—beef, sauce, and pasta—individually to ensure a well-balanced flavor profile.
Use Fresh Ingredients:
Whenever possible, use fresh herbs and high-quality Parmesan cheese to enhance the taste of the dish.
Let the Sauce Thicken Naturally:
Allow the sauce to simmer gently until it thickens slightly, as it will continue to thicken as it cools.
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