If you are searching for a meal that is bursting with rich flavors yet conveniently comes together in a single pot, the One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe is going to be your new best friend. This dish brilliantly combines tender ground beef, aromatic garlic butter, and perfectly cooked pasta all enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without complicated steps. Each bite delivers a satisfying harmony of savory depth and creamy indulgence, making it simply irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is refreshingly straightforward, with each one playing a key role to ensure balanced flavor, texture, and color. From the savory ground beef to the silky cream and herbs, each element contributes to a perfect, unified dish.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty protein base that adds rich, meaty flavor and satisfying texture.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Melts beautifully to create a fragrant garlic butter that brings depth and creaminess.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a warm, aromatic punch that infuses the entire dish.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and body to complement the garlic and beef.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb mix to elevate the pasta with subtle Mediterranean notes.
- 2 cups beef broth: Delivers savory richness and helps cook the pasta while soaking up all those flavors.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Brings luscious creaminess that soaks into the pasta, making every bite decadent.
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni): Tubular pasta shapes that trap sauce and make each mouthful satisfying.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that harmonize all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory umami and creamy texture for a cheesy finish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish): A pop of color and fresh flavor to brighten the dish before serving.
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and adding the ground beef. Cook it until fully browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. This step builds the foundation of flavor, so take your time to get a nice caramelization on the beef. Once done, drain off any excess grease to keep the sauce from becoming too oily.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Onion in Butter
To the same pot, add your butter and let it melt over medium heat. Then toss in the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion turns translucent and the garlic releases its wonderful aroma. This fragrant base enriches the entire dish and makes the pasta taste incredible.
Step 3: Add Italian Seasoning
Sprinkle in the dried Italian seasoning and stir it around for about a minute. This blend of herbs lends an authentic Italian flair and ties together the meaty and creamy elements beautifully.
Step 4: Simmer Pasta in Beef Broth
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add your chosen pasta directly into this flavorful liquid. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, letting the pasta cook for about 10 minutes while stirring occasionally. This technique infuses the pasta with meaty richness and allows it to absorb the delicious flavors as the liquid reduces.
Step 5: Stir in Cream and Parmesan
Once the pasta is perfectly tender and most of the broth has been absorbed, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce becomes luxuriously creamy and thick. Season with salt and pepper to balance the flavors just right.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
For an optional fresh touch, sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving. It’s the perfect finishing flourish for this hearty and comforting One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe.
How to Serve One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or even some extra grated Parmesan right before serving adds a bright, fresh contrast to the creamy richness. You could also scatter a few red pepper flakes if you like a little heat, which pairs wonderfully with the buttery garlic flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish is so hearty it can easily stand alone, but if you want to round out the meal, consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some garlic roasted vegetables. A crusty bread to soak up every luscious bit of sauce is always a welcome companion, too.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls, garnished with a sprig of fresh herbs and a small drizzle of olive oil. Layering textures by topping with toasted breadcrumbs adds a delightful crunch to the creamy pasta. It’s a simple change that makes the dish feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe keeps really well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cool it down completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers, although creamy pasta dishes sometimes change texture slightly after thawing. If you want to freeze, portion it into freezer-safe containers and use within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to reincorporate any separated sauce. Add a splash of milk or cream if the pasta seems dry and warm it thoroughly. Microwave reheating works too but try to do it in short bursts, stirring in between to keep it creamy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Although penne or rigatoni work great because their shape holds the sauce well, you can use any short pasta like fusilli or farfalle depending on your preference.
Is ground beef the only meat option?
No way! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or even try ground pork. Each brings its own unique flavor profile to the One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can stand in for Parmesan to keep that cheesy hint without dairy.
How spicy is this recipe?
This recipe is mild by default, focusing on creamy and savory flavors. If you like it spicier, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you add the garlic and onions.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! It reheats well and stores nicely, making it perfect for preparing ahead and enjoying quick, delicious meals throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and satisfying about a meal you can make all in one pot, with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. The One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe is exactly that—a warm hug on a plate that’s rich, creamy, and filled with so much love. Don’t hesitate to give it a try; your taste buds are in for an absolute treat!
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One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a quick and comforting dinner perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef is browned and simmered with garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning in beef broth, then combined with pasta and enriched with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to create a luscious, creamy sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and minimal on cleanup.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb ground beef
Dairy
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Produce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Pantry
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 2 cups beef broth
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon for even cooking.
- Remove Excess Grease & Add Butter: Drain any excess grease from the cooked beef, then add the butter to the pot and melt it over medium heat to prepare for sautéing aromatics.
- Sauté Garlic and Onion: Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, enhancing the flavor base.
- Add Italian Seasoning: Stir in the dried Italian seasoning and cook for another minute to release its aroma and flavor into the mixture.
- Cook Pasta in Broth: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish with Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta before serving hot to add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- You can use any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini for best results.
- To add extra veggies, consider adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms when sautéing the garlic and onions.
- Make sure to stir occasionally while the pasta simmers to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pot.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
