12ozspaghettibreak into thirds so it fits in the pot
1cuponion, chopped
1cupgreen bell pepper, chopped
3clovegarlic, minced
1can (10.75 oz)condensed tomato soupundiluted
1can (15 oz)tomato sauce
1cupwateradjust as needed while cooking
8ozcream cheesecubed, at room temperature
8ozshredded cheddar cheese
1tspsaltor to taste
0.5tspblack pepper
1tspItalian seasoning
Instructions
Preparation Steps
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon.
Drain excess fat if needed, then add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the beef. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
Pour in the condensed tomato soup, tomato sauce and water. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Add the broken spaghetti pieces to the pot, pushing them down so they are mostly submerged. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally so the pasta cooks evenly and doesn't clump. Add a splash of water if the mixture gets too thick before the pasta is tender.
When the spaghetti is tender, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the cubed cream cheese until melted and smooth, then fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully incorporated and creamy.
Season with salt, pepper and Italian seasoning to taste. If desired, sprinkle extra shredded cheddar over the top and let sit a few minutes to melt before serving.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute part of the cheddar with reduced-fat cheese and use lean ground turkey. Leftovers store well in the fridge for 3–4 days.