If you’re dreaming of a comforting, hearty dinner that’s as cozy as it is crave-worthy, look no further than One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta. This recipe delivers every bit of the savory satisfaction you expect from a pasta night, but with a fraction of the fuss—minimal dishes, maximum flavor! With tender pasta, juicy ground beef, and a rich garlic butter sauce that hugs every bite, it’s the kind of meal your family will request again and again. The best part? It all comes together in a single pot, making weeknight dinners an absolute breeze.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is its simplicity—each ingredient pulls its weight to bring big flavors, creamy textures, and a pop of color to your dinner table. Here’s why you don’t want to skip any of these essentials:
- Ground beef: Brings hearty, meaty flavor and turns this into a filling meal.
- Pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice): Picks up all the scrumptious sauce and creates that perfect “comfort food” bite.
- Olive oil: Helps brown the beef and adds a layer of richness right from the start.
- Unsalted butter: This is the secret to that luscious, silky garlic butter sauce.
- Garlic (minced): Loads the whole dish with aromatic, irresistible flavor.
- Italian seasoning: A simple way to add herby depth and classic Italian taste.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle heat that brightens up every mouthful.
- Beef broth: Instead of plain water, this infuses the pasta with even more savory goodness as it cooks.
- Heavy cream: Adds that luxurious creaminess without a heavy-handed feel.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, giving it a nutty, salty kick you’ll love.
- Salt and pepper: Simple, but essential for balancing and popping all the flavors.
- Chopped parsley: For a burst of color and freshness to finish things off in style.
How to Make One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and let it brown, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. This is your flavor foundation, so don’t rush—give the beef plenty of time to develop those delicious caramelized edges. If you find there’s a bit too much grease, go ahead and drain off the excess.
Step 2: Sizzle the Garlic in Butter
Push the browned beef to one side of your pot. Slide in 2 tablespoons of butter and that mound of freshly minced garlic. Let the garlic sizzle away for a minute or two until it’s incredibly fragrant—this step infuses everything with warm, garlicky goodness. When you can’t resist the aroma any longer, mix the garlic right into the beef and sprinkle over your Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if you like a kick).
Step 3: Add the Pasta and Broth
Now it’s time for the “one pot magic” moment! Pour in the beef broth and add your uncooked pasta. Stir until everything is well combined, making sure the pasta is nestled into the liquid. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to medium-low. Cover the pot and let everything simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring now and then, until the pasta is perfectly tender and most of that flavorful broth has been absorbed.
Step 4: Stir in the Creamy Goodness
Once the pasta hits that ideal spot, uncover and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, the heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Give it a minute or two over low heat so the cheese melts and the sauce turns irresistibly creamy, wrapping every bit of meat and pasta in a rich cloak of flavor. Don’t forget to taste and adjust with salt and pepper—this is the moment everything comes together!
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Spoon your One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta into bowls right away and crown each serving with a scattering of fresh parsley. That burst of green is more than just a pretty touch—it keeps the flavors bright and balanced. Serve it up hot, and get ready for big smiles around the table.
How to Serve One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra Parmesan is always a good idea—let everyone help themselves at the table! Chopped fresh parsley not only looks beautiful but also adds a welcome herbaceous note. A tiny pinch of crushed red pepper or a swirl of good olive oil brings even more dimension to your bowl of One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta.
Side Dishes
While this dish is totally satisfying on its own, it makes a wonderful partner to simple sides. Think a crisp green salad dressed with lemony vinaigrette or a platter of roasted or steamed veggies. Of course, nobody will complain if you serve warm bread on the side to mop up that gorgeous sauce!
Creative Ways to Present
To turn weeknight dinner into something a little special, serve your One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta family-style in a big, rustic bowl. Top with a mountain of freshly grated Parmesan and finish with a flurry of parsley. For a personal touch at gatherings, scoop into small ramekins or mugs for individual servings—perfect for a party or casual get-together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to three days. This pasta holds its creamy texture surprisingly well, making leftovers a treat.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze this dish! Pack portions into freezer-safe, airtight containers and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight for the best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place your pasta in a saucepan or microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of beef broth or cream to loosen the sauce, then warm gently over low heat or use the microwave in short bursts. Give it a good stir now and then for even reheating—the flavors might be even better the second time around!
FAQs
Can I use another type Main Course
Absolutely! Ground turkey or seasoned sausage both make fantastic substitutes for beef. Just know that sausage will add a whole new dimension of flavor, while turkey keeps things a little lighter.
Will gluten-free pasta work in One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta?
Yes, you can use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Keep in mind it may cook a bit faster or absorb liquid differently, so check for doneness starting a few minutes early and adjust the liquid as needed.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half or even whole milk can be used in place of heavy cream. While you’ll lose a touch of that rich silkiness, you’ll still get a creamy, comforting dish.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Certainly! Spinach, peas, or chopped bell peppers can be tossed in during the last few minutes of cook time. They add color, nutrition, and a deliciously fresh contrast to the comforting richness of the pasta.
How do I make it spicier?
If you’re a fan of heat, simply double the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or serve with extra on the side. You can also stir a small squeeze of hot sauce into the finished dish before serving.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about a meal that comes together in one pot yet tastes like you fussed all night. One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta brings all the cozy, savory joy of pasta night in the most effortless way possible. I hope you’ll whip this up soon, gather your loved ones, and enjoy every garlicky, buttery, creamy bite—trust me, this is one to keep on repeat!
Print
One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and hearty one-pot meal featuring savory ground beef, garlic-infused buttery pasta, and a creamy Parmesan sauce. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Ground Beef:
1 pound
Pasta:
10 ounces (penne, rotini, or your choice)
Olive Oil:
1 tablespoon
Butter:
4 tablespoons unsalted (divided)
Garlic:
5 cloves, minced
Italian Seasoning:
1 teaspoon
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes:
1/2 teaspoon (optional)
Beef Broth:
3 cups
Heavy Cream:
1/2 cup
Parmesan Cheese:
1/2 cup grated
Salt and Pepper:
To taste
Parsley:
Chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Beef: Brown the ground beef in olive oil, then add 2 tablespoons of butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and optionally crushed red pepper flakes.
- Cook Pasta: Add beef broth and pasta, simmer until pasta is tender.
- Finish Dish: Stir in remaining butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese until creamy. Season and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or sausage for beef.
- For a richer flavor, add white wine with the garlic.
- Leftovers reheat well with a splash of broth or cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 34 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
