If you’re craving a comforting, indulgent meal that comes together effortlessly, then you absolutely need to try this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe. It’s the perfect union of savory ground beef, luxuriously creamy garlic butter sauce, and tender pasta all cooked together in one pot for minimal mess and maximum flavor. Every bite delivers a cozy, restaurant-worthy experience that’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want to treat yourself. This dish is a total game-changer when it comes to quick, satisfying dinners!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Clear, everyday ingredients make this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe both approachable and delicious. Each item plays a crucial role in building the rich, comforting flavor and creamy texture that make this dish so memorable.
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor): Provides hearty, savory meatiness and just enough fat to keep things juicy.
- 2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and a silky smooth mouthfeel to the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with butter.
- 1 small onion, diced: Offers sweetness and a subtle crunch once sautéed.
- 3 cups beef broth (or chicken broth for a lighter taste): Builds a flavorful, savory base for the sauce while cooking the pasta.
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version): Creates that luxuriously creamy consistency without overpowering the other flavors.
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells): Picks up the sauce beautifully and makes each bite satisfying.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Adds a fragrant blend of herbs for a touch of Mediterranean flair.
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Provides a gentle kick for those who like a little heat.
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving): Melts into the sauce for that irresistible salty creaminess.
- Salt & black pepper to taste: Essential for balancing all the flavors perfectly.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): Brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh herby finish.
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. This step builds the foundational meaty flavor that the whole dish depends on. Remember to drain any excess fat so your sauce stays creamy and not greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic in Butter
Add the butter straight into the beef-lined pot and let it melt to create a rich flavor base. Toss in the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about three minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute—this step unlocks the buttery, garlicky aroma that gives the dish its signature warmth.
Step 3: Add Broth, Cream, and Pasta
Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Carefully add your pasta, ensuring it’s submerged so it cooks evenly in the creamy sauce. Now’s the time to season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. This simmer melds all the bold flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender
Cover the pot and let everything simmer over medium-low heat for 12 to 15 minutes, giving it an occasional stir. This slow simmer softens the pasta and allows the sauce to thicken into an irresistible, velvety coating that clings perfectly to every noodle.
Step 5: Stir in Parmesan Cheese
Remove the lid and gently stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, making it ultra creamy. Taste test and add extra salt or pepper as needed — this step brings out the true depth of flavor in your One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese for a pop of color and texture. Serve immediately while warm and gooey for the ultimate comfort food experience.
How to Serve One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like chopped fresh parsley or basil brighten this creamy dish with fresh herbal notes. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan adds a little salty crunch and an impressive presentation touch. For a subtle pop of color and crunch, toasted pine nuts or crushed red pepper flakes also work beautifully.
Side Dishes
This pasta is hearty but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables to add texture and freshness. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is always a welcome partner, perfect for soaking up any leftover silky sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party twist, serve portions in individual ramekins topped with a sprig of fresh herb and grated Parmesan. Alternatively, layering this pasta in a casserole dish with extra cheese and broiling it briefly creates a golden crust that’s irresistible. Serving with a glass of your favorite red wine elevates the experience even more.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the second-day leftovers a little gem, though the pasta might soak up more sauce and need a splash of broth when reheating.
Freezing
This dish is freezer-friendly! Cool completely before packing into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Freeze in meal-sized portions to make busy weeknight dinners a breeze when you’re short on time.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce’s creamy consistency. Microwave works too—just cover and heat in short intervals, stirring in between to keep things evenly warmed and creamy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, rotini, shells, or any short pasta works best because they hold the creamy sauce nicely, but feel free to experiment with your favorite shapes.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can swap the butter for olive oil and use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative, and substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan to keep the creamy texture while making the dish dairy-free.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken are great leaner alternatives. Keep in mind they have milder flavors, so you might want to boost seasoning or add extra garlic to keep the dish flavorful.
How spicy is the recipe with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle kick without overpowering the dish. You can adjust the amount or omit them completely if you prefer a milder taste.
What can I do to make this recipe quicker?
Using precooked or leftover ground beef can cut down prep time. Also, having all your ingredients measured and ready before starting helps streamline the whole cooking process.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe is a shining example of simple ingredients combining to create something truly spectacular. It’s cozy, creamy, and packed with flavor, yet incredibly easy to make with just one pot and about 30 minutes. I can’t recommend it enough for your next weeknight dinner or whenever you want that warm hug of comfort food on your plate. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Pot Creamy Beef & Garlic Butter Pasta is a comforting and flavorful meal that combines ground beef, garlic butter, and tender pasta in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe requires minimal cleanup and delivers hearty satisfaction with every bite.
Ingredients
Beef & Butter
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 2 tbsp butter
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
Liquids & Dairy
- 3 cups beef broth (or chicken broth for a lighter taste)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
Pasta & Seasoning
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Make sure to break the meat apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the butter to the pot with the beef. Once the butter has melted, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add liquids and pasta: Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Add the pasta, making sure it is fully submerged in the liquid. Season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using for some heat.
- Simmer the pasta: Cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Finish with cheese: Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until it melts and incorporates fully, creating a creamy, cheesy sauce. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese over the pasta before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve hot for a hearty, comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth for beef broth for a lighter flavor.
- For a lower-fat version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Try different pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells for varied texture.
- Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice subtle heat.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
