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If you are craving a comforting, rich, and downright delicious meal that comes together effortlessly, this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine tender ground beef infused with fragrant garlic, swimming in a luscious, creamy sauce that clings perfectly to every bite of pasta. This dish is an all-in-one dinner superstar—simple enough for a busy weeknight yet indulgent enough to impress family or friends. Plus, it’s all made in a single pot, which means minimal mess and maximum flavor in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role, from the savoriness of ground beef to the rich creaminess of heavy cream, creating a harmonious dish that feels both hearty and elegant.
- Olive oil: A tablespoon to help brown the beef beautifully and add subtle fruitiness to the dish.
- Ground beef: A pound of quality meat provides the savory foundation and satisfying protein punch.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds an irresistible aromatic depth with its warm, pungent flavor.
- Beef broth (1 cup): This enriches the pasta as it cooks, making every strand flavorful and moist.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Essential for that silky, creamy texture that wraps around the pasta and beef.
- Pasta (1 1/2 cups): Choose penne or rotini for their perfect sauce-holding shapes and tender bite.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Adds a nutty, salty finish that elevates the creaminess and depth.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile just right.
- Fresh parsley: A bright, fresh garnish that adds color and a hint of herbal freshness.
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. You want that caramelized crust as it adds incredible flavor, so don’t rush this step. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the dish balanced and prevent greasiness.
Step 2: Infuse with Garlic
Next, toss in the minced garlic directly into the skillet with the beef. Cooking it for just one minute helps release its fragrant aroma without burning it, which would turn the taste bitter. This step unlocks the comforting garlic scent that will make your kitchen smell downright irresistible.
Step 3: Simmer Pasta in Broth
Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Now, add your pasta, making sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Cooking the pasta this way lets it absorb the savory beef broth flavor from the inside out. Follow the package directions for timing—typically 10 to 12 minutes—until the pasta is tender but still slightly firm to the bite.
Step 4: Stir in Cream and Cheese
Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Cooking for an additional 2 to 3 minutes allows the sauce to thicken luxuriously, coating every piece of pasta in a velvety, cheesy hug. This is the heart of the One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe experience.
Step 5: Season and Garnish
Finally, season everything with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to your taste. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top just before serving for that pop of green and a fresh, herbaceous note that perfectly balances the creamy richness.
How to Serve One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic and beautiful garnish to brighten the dish. For an extra flavor kick, you can add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dusting more Parmesan cheese. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also add a subtle sheen and enhance aroma.
Side Dishes
This creamy beef pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides like a mixed greens salad with a zesty vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables. Garlic bread or warm crusty bread also make fantastic companions to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting family-style presentation, serve the pasta in a large rustic bowl garnished with parsley, letting everyone help themselves. To impress guests, plate individual portions and add a fresh parsley sprig on top with a Parmesan shaving for an elegant touch. You can even sprinkle toasted pine nuts or chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a twist in texture and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making the next-day meal just as fantastic.
Freezing
This dish freezes well in portions, perfect for meal prep. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid clumping. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
When it’s time to reheat, do so gently over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce seems too thick. Microwaving works too, but stir halfway through to ensure even heating and preserve the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or rotini works great for holding the sauce, feel free to swap in any short pasta you love. Just be sure to adjust cooking times according to package instructions.
Is it possible to make this recipe without heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. To compensate, adding a little extra cheese or a small amount of butter can help maintain silky texture.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken will also work nicely. Keep in mind these meats are leaner, so the dish might be a bit lighter in flavor; seasoning generously will help.
How can I make this recipe spicy?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you cook the garlic or stir in some hot sauce with the cream and cheese for a delicious spicy kick.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep and freezing?
Definitely! This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe is perfect for meal prepping. It freezes well and reheats easily, making busy weekdays much simpler.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe is truly a treasure for anyone who loves comfort food with a fuss-free preparation. The ease of cooking everything in one pot, combined with the rich, creamy flavors, makes it a go-to favorite for weeknights, gatherings, or whenever you need a cozy hug on a plate. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a quick and comforting meal that combines juicy ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in just 20 minutes using only one skillet, minimizing cleanup without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups pasta (such as penne or rotini)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring the garlic flavor infuses the meat without burning.
- Simmer Pasta and Broth: Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a simmer. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 10-12 minutes, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed some broth flavor.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring often, to allow the sauce to thicken and coat the pasta evenly.
- Season and Garnish: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- Use any short pasta shape like penne, rotini, or rigatoni for best results.
- If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- For extra veggies, stir in some chopped spinach or mushrooms during the broth simmer step.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream.
