This one-pot creamy beef and garlic butter pasta is rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying. I love how the ground beef, garlic, and buttery cream sauce coat every piece of pasta, making it a hearty dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it’s simple, comforting, and made in just one pot—less cleanup, more flavor. The garlic butter sauce is indulgent without being heavy, and the beef makes it filling enough to serve as a complete meal. It’s one of those dishes I can throw together when I don’t feel like fussing but still want something delicious.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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ground beef
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pasta (penne, rigatoni, or shells work well)
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butter
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garlic (minced)
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onion (optional)
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beef broth
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heavy cream or half-and-half
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Parmesan cheese
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Italian seasoning
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salt
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black pepper
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fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
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I melt butter in a large pot or deep skillet and sauté garlic (and onion if using) until fragrant.
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I add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned.
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I stir in pasta and pour in beef broth, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged.
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I bring it to a simmer, cover, and cook until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
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Once the pasta is cooked, I stir in cream and Parmesan until the sauce becomes rich and creamy.
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I garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Prep time takes me 10 minutes, cooking is around 25 minutes, so the dish is ready in about 35 minutes total.
Variations
Sometimes I add spinach, mushrooms, or peas for extra veggies. If I want a spicy kick, I sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a spoonful of chili paste. For a richer sauce, I use a little cream cheese along with the Parmesan.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. The microwave works too, but I stir halfway so it heats evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different protein?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage all work well.
Can I make this without cream?
Yes, I use milk with a little cornstarch to thicken, or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
What pasta shape works best?
I usually use short pasta like penne or rigatoni, but spaghetti also works.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, though it’s best fresh. If making ahead, I keep the pasta slightly undercooked so it doesn’t get too soft when reheated.
How do I keep the sauce from being too thick?
I reserve extra broth and add it as needed while cooking to keep the sauce silky.
Conclusion
I love making one-pot creamy beef and garlic butter pasta because it’s hearty, flavorful, and fuss-free. The combination of savory beef, buttery garlic, and creamy sauce makes it a dish I always look forward to. It’s easy, comforting, and perfect for busy nights when I need something satisfying fast.
