One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
When comfort food calls, this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
answers loud and clear. Tender ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich,
garlicky cream sauce all come together in a single pot for a meal that’s indulgent,
satisfying, and refreshingly simple to make.
This is the kind of recipe you turn to on busy weeknights, chilly evenings,
or anytime you want a cozy, homemade dinner without dealing with a sink full of dishes.
Creamy, savory, and packed with flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent
but uses everyday ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
- Rich & Creamy: Garlic butter and cream create a silky sauce.
- Family-Friendly: A comforting dish everyone enjoys.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with veggies or protein swaps.
- Weeknight Ready: On the table in about 30 minutes.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dried pasta | 8 oz (about 2 cups) | Penne, fusilli, or fettuccine work well |
| Ground beef | 1 lb | Lean or regular |
| Unsalted butter | 3 tablespoons | For richness and flavor |
| Garlic cloves | 4 | Minced |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups | Sub beef broth for deeper flavor |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | Half-and-half can be used for lighter sauce |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 cup | Freshly grated preferred |
| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon | Or oregano & thyme blend |
| Salt | To taste | Adjust at the end |
| Black pepper | To taste | Freshly ground if possible |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | To taste | Add for heat |
| Sautéed mushrooms or spinach (optional) | 1 cup | Great for added texture and nutrition |
| Fresh parsley (optional) | For garnish | Chopped |
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or deep skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat.
Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Continue until fully browned,
about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed.
Step 2: Add Butter & Garlic
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic to the beef.
Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes, just until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Avoid browning the garlic to keep the flavor smooth and mellow.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Add the dry pasta, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Stir well to ensure the pasta is mostly submerged in liquid.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is
tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese.
Let the pasta cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring gently,
until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta beautifully.
If using mushrooms, spinach, or other vegetables, stir them in at this stage.
Step 5: Finish & Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper,
or red pepper flakes if desired.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm. This dish is perfect
on its own or paired with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Parmesan: It melts smoother than pre-shredded cheese.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the pasta to maintain a creamy texture.
- Adjust Consistency: Add a splash of broth or cream if sauce thickens too much.
- Protein Swaps: Ground turkey, sausage, or plant-based meat work well.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to
3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with
a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.