One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The ground beef provides a hearty base, while the garlic butter sauce adds depth and richness. The addition of Parmesan cheese brings a savory umami kick, and the pasta absorbs all the delicious flavors, making each bite satisfying. Plus, cooking everything in one pot means minimal cleanup—just pure comfort food with ease.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ cup beef broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 8 ounces pasta (penne or spaghetti works well)

• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes.

2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the garlic and onion to the pot. Cook for another 2 minutes, until fragrant and softened.

3. Season: Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

4. Add Liquids: Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly.

5. Make it Creamy: Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, about 3–4 minutes.

6. Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the pot, ensuring it’s covered by the sauce. Add a little extra water or broth if needed. Cover the pot and cook the pasta according to the package instructions (usually about 8–10 minutes), stirring occasionally.

7. Finish and Serve: Once the pasta is tender and the sauce is creamy, remove the pot from the heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Servings: 4

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

• Mushroom Addition: Sauté mushrooms with the onions for added depth.

• Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in shredded mozzarella for an extra cheesy version.

• Vegetable Boost: Stir in spinach or peas for a nutritious touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to maintain the creamy texture. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

• Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Any short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni works well.

How do I make this dish lighter?

You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and lean ground beef or ground turkey.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms.

What’s the best way to prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent the pasta from clumping together.

Can I add more cheese?

Absolutely! Extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar can make it even richer.

How can I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water).

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 3–4 hours.

What side dishes pair well with this pasta?

Garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables are great accompaniments.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be less rich. You may need to add a bit of flour or cornstarch to help thicken it.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Conclusion

One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is the perfect dish for anyone looking for a delicious, hassle-free meal. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Try it today and enjoy a comforting homemade pasta dish with minimal effort!