One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe

If you’re searching for a fail-proof, flavor-packed weeknight meal, let me introduce you to my obsession: One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta. This dish truly delivers on cozy comfort with minimal cleanup, offering tender pasta, juicy beef, and a luscious garlic butter cream sauce—all in a single pot. With layers of savory goodness and a rich, velvety texture that clings to every bite, it’s a complete crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta calls for everyday staples that bring big flavors with little fuss. Each ingredient is there for a reason, working together to create a meal that’s hearty, creamy, and undeniably delicious.

• Olive oil: Starts everything off with a touch of fruitiness and gets the beef sizzling beautifully.
• Ground beef: The backbone of the dish, adding rich, hearty flavor and satisfying protein.
• Onion: Sweetness and depth begin with sautéed onions that melt right into the sauce.
• Garlic: Four cloves may seem like a lot, but trust me, this is key for that irresistible garlic butter flavor!
• Italian seasoning: Brings a subtle blend of herbs that makes the sauce taste like it simmered all day.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For just a hint of heat that you can dial up or down to your taste.
• Beef broth: Infuses the pasta with meaty richness as it cooks, making every bite more flavorful.
• Milk: Combines with the broth to help the pasta cook up creamy right in the pot.
• Short pasta (penne, rotini, or shells): These shapes catch the sauce in every curve and crevice.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds nuttiness and sharp, cheesy depth to the sauce.
• Unsalted butter: Essential for silkiness and, of course, that trademark garlic butter taste.
• Heavy cream: Brings everything together into an extra dreamy, creamy sauce.
• Salt and black pepper: To perfectly season the finished dish.
• Chopped parsley (optional): For a burst of color and freshness right before serving.

How to Make One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Let it brown evenly—this is when the flavor magic begins! Once it’s no longer pink and develops those tasty caramelized bits, drain off any excess grease if you like your pasta a bit lighter.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic releases its marvelous aroma. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning (and red pepper flakes, if you’re feeling spicy) and stir everything together, letting those herbs wake up in the hot pan.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta

Pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring well to blend all those rich flavors. Then add your pasta of choice. Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer. The pasta cooks right in the sauce, soaking up all the savory goodness for about 12 to 15 minutes. Give it a stir every now and then, and check for doneness.

Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Cream

This is where the One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta truly shines. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, butter, and heavy cream. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce turns gloriously creamy. Taste it—add more salt and pepper if it needs a boost. Let it rest for a couple of minutes, giving the sauce time to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top your pasta with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it up piping hot, straight from the pot. Got a little extra Parmesan lying around? Don’t be shy—bring it to the table for sprinkling!

How to Serve One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

Garnishes

A shower of freshly chopped parsley keeps things bright and balances the richness of the sauce. I also love a little more grated Parmesan on top and a twist of cracked black pepper. If you want to get fancy, crispy fried onions or a scattering of toasted pine nuts would add crunch and gorgeous color.

Side Dishes

This pasta is hearty enough to stand on its own, but a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette makes for a refreshing contrast. Warm garlic bread or a rustic baguette is perfect for swiping up every drop of sauce. If you’re aiming for more veggies, simply steam some broccoli or toss together roasted green beans for a colorful plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving a crowd? Spoon your One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta into a big, shallow platter and let everyone help themselves. For date night, portion it into pasta bowls, twirled high and sprinkled with extra parsley. You can even turn leftovers into baked pasta the next night: just top with mozzarella and bake until bubbly!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To store leftover One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta, allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, maintaining its flavor and satisfying texture.

Freezing

If you’re planning ahead or have a busy week, this pasta freezes surprisingly well! Portion cooled pasta into freezer-safe bags or containers and stash in the freezer for up to two months. The sauce stays creamy, but for best texture, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir often and heat just until everything is steamy and smooth again—don’t rush, or the sauce could separate. The microwave also works for quick lunches; cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between each.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage work beautifully in this recipe. Each one brings its own character and will blend right into the creamy, garlicky sauce.

What type of pasta should I pick?

Short pastas like penne, rotini, or shells are ideal because they hold onto the sauce and soak up the flavors best. Feel free to use what you have—just adjust the simmer time for thicker or thinner shapes.

Can I make One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta lighter?

You can! Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk, and use a leaner cut of beef. The sauce will still be incredibly creamy, just a touch less rich.

How do I add vegetables?

Toss in a couple of handfuls of baby spinach or peas during the last few minutes of simmering. They cook quickly and sneak in a lovely hint of green freshness.

Will the pasta overcook while sitting in the sauce?

As long as you serve it soon after cooking, the pasta will be perfectly tender. If you’re making it ahead, just undercook the pasta slightly since it will soften a bit more as it sits in the creamy sauce.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re whipping up a last-minute weeknight dinner or planning ahead for a cozy gathering, this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta has you covered. All it takes is a single pot and a handful of simple ingredients to make something totally memorable—so why not treat yourself and give it a try tonight?

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