Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you're a fan of creamy, flavorful pasta dishes, this recipe is sure to win you over. The creamy garlic butter sauce pairs perfectly with the juicy, seasoned beef, creating a dish that’s rich, savory, and downright delicious. The best part? You make it all in just one pot, so there’s minimal cleanup afterward. Whether you're looking for a weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress guests, this recipe will definitely deliver. Plus, the pasta soaks up all the flavors, making every bite irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well)
- 4 tablespoon butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the pot and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
- Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the pasta. Stir to make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the pot with a lid and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Total time: 30 minutes
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Add vegetables: Include vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to add extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy version: If you enjoy heat, add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a kick of spice.
- Different meats: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a variation in flavor.
- Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for a creamier texture and different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover creamy beef and garlic butter pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the pasta in a saucepan over medium heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Penne, spaghetti, and fettuccine are all great options for this dish.
2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative to beef, and it will still create a flavorful dish.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the garlic and beef mixture to bring some heat to the dish.
5. Can I freeze leftover pasta?
While it’s not ideal, you can freeze leftover pasta. Just store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1-2 months. Reheat it on the stove with a bit of milk or broth to restore the creamy texture.
6. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, milk can be used instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be less creamy. If using milk, consider adding a tablespoon of flour to thicken the sauce.
7. How do I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can either let it simmer longer or add a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour mixed with a little water to the pot.
8. Can I add more garlic?
If you're a garlic lover, feel free to add more garlic to the recipe for a stronger flavor.
9. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or mushrooms for a vegetarian version of this creamy pasta dish.
10. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the beef and garlic sauce ahead of time and cook the pasta when ready to serve.
Conclusion
One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves comforting, creamy pasta dishes. With its rich, buttery sauce and tender beef, this dish delivers on flavor and ease. Plus, the fact that it’s all made in one pot makes it a hassle-free meal for busy weeknights. Whether you enjoy it as is or make your own variations, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines savory beef, creamy sauce, and garlic butter all in one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner, this comforting pasta dish is a family favorite. With rich flavors and minimal cleanup, it’s a hassle-free meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re craving a creamy, savory dish or just looking for a quick dinner, this recipe is the perfect solution.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 people
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 4 tbsp butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef, seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the pasta. Stir to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the pot and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Vegetable Variation: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give it a spicy kick.
- Alternative Meats: Ground turkey, chicken, or sausage can be substituted for beef.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with mozzarella or cheddar for a different texture and flavor.
