Hey y'all! If you're craving a hearty, comforting meal that's easy to whip up and perfect for busy nights, this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is just what you need. With tender beef, a luscious creamy sauce, and irresistible garlic butter flavor, it’s a weeknight wonder or a cozy weekend treat. Everything cooks in a single pot for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
- Minimal Cleanup: Only one pot needed, making after-dinner chores a breeze!
- Rich & Creamy: The sauce is luxuriously creamy, coating every bite of pasta and beef.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for hectic weeknights.
- Family-Friendly: Savory flavors kids and adults both adore.
- Customizable: Swap in your favorite pasta shapes or add veggies for variety.
One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (85% lean)
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 12 oz (340g) penne or fusilli pasta (uncooked)
- 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics in Garlic Butter
Add the butter to the beef and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent.
Step 3: Add Pasta and Liquids
Pour in the uncooked pasta, beef broth, and heavy cream. Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Step 4: Cook Pasta
Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, for 12-14 minutes, until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes for One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
- For extra creaminess, add another splash of cream or a spoonful of cream cheese at the end.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor (why grating your own cheese matters).
- The pasta will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so add a splash of broth to loosen leftovers if needed.
Variations of One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
- Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or extra red pepper flakes for heat.
- Mushroom Medley: Stir in 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in baby spinach or frozen peas for a pop of color and nutrition.
Required Equipment for One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
- Large Dutch oven or deep skillet (at least 5-quart)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
Storage Instructions for One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce. This dish is not ideal for freezing, as the cream sauce may separate.
Suggested Pairings for One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
- Serve with crusty garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal.
- A crisp green salad balances the richness wonderfully.
- Pair with a light red wine, like Pinot Noir, or a sparkling water with lemon.
Pro Tips for Perfect One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
- Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well, like penne or rotini (learn more about pasta shapes).
- Let the sauce rest for 2 minutes off heat before serving for a thicker, silkier texture.
- Adjust seasoning at the end; Parmesan can add saltiness, so taste before adding extra salt (Parmesan nutrition facts).
FAQ: One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
- Can I use a different type of meat?
- Absolutely! Try ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a flavor twist.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta and adjust the cooking time as needed.
- How can I make this dish lighter?
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half, use leaner beef, and load up on extra veggies for a lighter version.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
- 4 cups (950ml) low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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1In a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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2Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
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3Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Add the penne pasta and stir to combine. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
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4Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and thickened.
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5Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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