If weeknight dinner needs a hero, One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta swoops in without hesitation. This comforting classic brings together juicy ground beef, velvety garlic butter, and tender pasta—all cooked in a single pot, so cleanup is a breeze. Every bite is packed with rich, savory flavors that come together in less than 30 minutes, making this dish a delicious answer to busy schedules, picky eaters, and anyone longing for creamy, garlicky goodness enveloped in pasta.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta plays a vital part, from the well-seasoned beef that serves as the hearty base to the touch of Parmesan that brings a nutty depth. The beauty of this combination is how it turns everyday staples into a dish with impressive flavor and creamy satisfaction.
- Olive oil: Adds a fruity base note and helps brown the beef evenly.
- Ground beef: Provides the savory core of the dish; try using 80-85% lean for the best flavor and texture.
- Garlic (minced): Infuses the pasta with a bold, aromatic kick—don’t skimp on the garlic!
- Italian seasoning: Lends subtle herbal complexity that ties the flavors together.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Sprinkle these in for a gentle heat that perks up the creamy sauce.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out all the savory notes and balancing the dairy richness.
- Black pepper: Adds warm spice and depth.
- Beef broth: Creates a savory cooking liquid that soaks into the pasta for extra flavor.
- Milk: Contributes creaminess and ensures the sauce clings to every noodle.
- Pasta (penne or rotini): These shapes hold up beautifully in the sauce; use your favorite for best results.
- Parmesan cheese (grated): Melts into the sauce for a nutty, salty chewiness that’s irresistible.
- Unsalted butter: Melted in at the end for luscious, garlicky flavor and a glossy finish.
- Heavy cream: Delivers a luxurious, velvety texture to the sauce.
- Chopped parsley (optional): Brings brightness and a fresh pop of color to the plate.
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Begin with a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven set over medium heat. Add olive oil—just enough to shimmer—then crumble in the ground beef. Let the beef sear, breaking it up into crumbles as it browns thoroughly. This step brings out rich, meaty notes that will underpin all the flavors to come. Remember, a little extra color means extra flavor, so take your time before draining off any excess fat.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings
With the beef beautifully browned, it’s time for the magic. Toss in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the red pepper flakes. Sprinkle in salt and black pepper. Stir everything together and let the garlic gently sizzle—not too long, just until its aroma fills your kitchen. These spices make the base for your creamy sauce, so let them bloom!
Step 3: Simmer with Pasta, Broth, and Milk
Pour in the beef broth and milk, giving the pot a good stir to bring up any browned bits from the bottom. Now, nestle the uncooked pasta right into this flavorful bath. Bring it all up to a boil, then dial the heat back to a gentle simmer and cover. Over the next 10-12 minutes, the pasta drinks in all that beefy, garlicky essence while becoming perfectly al dente. Stir it every so often to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Enrich and Thicken the Sauce
Once the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, it’s time for the final flourish. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, butter, and heavy cream. As the cheese melts and the butter blends in, you’ll have a glossy, rich sauce clinging to every curl and tube of pasta. Simmer uncovered for a couple more minutes until the sauce is thick and irresistible. Taste, then adjust the salt or pepper if you think it needs a little something extra.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
Dish up the One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta while it’s hot, finishing with a flourish of chopped parsley if you like a bit of color and freshness. This is comfort food at its best—creamy, beefy, and shining with garlicky goodness. Dig in and enjoy every bite!
How to Serve One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a good garnish. A shower of chopped fresh parsley or even a touch more grated Parmesan over the top adds color, freshness, and a savory pop with each forkful. For those who love a little extra decadence, a swirl of melted butter on top never hurts!
Side Dishes
While One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, you can brighten up your table with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread for extra scooping. Simple roasted veggies or steamed green beans also pair beautifully with the creamy richness of the pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to dress things up for guests, scoop the pasta into individual bowls and top each with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of chili flakes. You can also serve family-style straight from the skillet for that warm, abundant feel. For a playful twist, turn leftovers into cheesy pasta bake by topping with mozzarella and popping under the broiler until golden and bubbly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
When storing leftover One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta, let it cool completely before transferring to a well-sealed container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making for satisfying next-day lunches.
Freezing
This pasta freezes surprisingly well! Simply scoop portions into airtight containers or freezer bags, label, and freeze for up to two months. For the best texture, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To revive leftover pasta, gently reheat it in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce. Microwave reheating also works in a pinch—just add that extra liquid to maintain creaminess and stir halfway through heating for even results.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While penne and rotini are wonderful because they hold creamy sauce so well, you can use any short pasta—fusilli, farfalle, or even shells. Just adjust the cooking time as needed and make sure to keep an eye on the liquid so nothing dries out.
How spicy is this dish?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, but the spice level is totally customizable. Leave them out for a milder version, or double up if your crowd loves a bit of a kick.
Can I make One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta ahead for meal prep?
Definitely! This recipe is amazing for meal prep. You can make a big batch in advance, portion it into containers, and enjoy flavorful, creamy pasta all week long. It reheats beautifully, especially with that extra splash of milk or broth to keep things saucy.
Is it possible to make this dish lighter?
You can swap in lean ground beef or even ground turkey for a leaner profile. Use reduced-fat milk, half-and-half in place of heavy cream, and go easy on the cheese for a lighter take without losing too much of the comforting flavor.
What can I add to customize this pasta?
One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a fantastic canvas for extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers—you can toss them in when the broth and pasta go in. A handful of shredded mozzarella at the end makes things extra gooey, if you’re in that kind of mood!
Final Thoughts
It’s hard to beat the sheer comfort and crowd-pleasing magic of One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta. Next time you need a dinner that’s both simple and soul-satisfying, give this recipe a try—you’ll quickly see why it’s a favorite in so many kitchens. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious spoonful!
Print
One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta. A satisfying meal that’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Remaining Ingredients:
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups milk
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet, add ground beef, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Season and Simmer: Add garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook until fragrant. Pour in broth and milk, then stir in pasta. Simmer until pasta is al dente.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in Parmesan, butter, and cream. Cook until sauce thickens. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Notes
- For extra richness, consider adding shredded mozzarella or cheddar.
- This dish reheats well and is great for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
