One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

Name: One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Isabella

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This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is the ultimate weeknight comfort meal! With savory ground beef, garlic butter, and creamy sauce, this dish is a delicious blend of flavors, all cooked in just one pot for easy cleanup. It’s quick, hearty, and perfect for a busy evening when you want something comforting yet simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines all the rich flavors of garlic butter and ground beef with the creamy goodness of a pasta sauce that’s just indulgent enough without being too heavy. The fact that everything cooks in one pot makes cleanup a breeze, and the result is a comforting dish that’s great for a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner at home. The creamy texture pairs perfectly with the savory beef and a sprinkle of Parmesan, making it a meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

2 tablespoons butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

2 cups beef broth

1 cup heavy cream

8 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni works great)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon.

Once the beef is cooked, remove any excess grease. Add the butter to the pot and melt it over medium heat.

Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

Stir in the dried Italian seasoning and cook for another minute.

Add the beef broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta to the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Meat Substitution: If you’re not a fan of ground beef, try swapping it with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.

Pasta Variations: Penne and rigatoni work great, but feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle.

Creaminess: For an even creamier sauce, you can add an extra 1/4 cup of heavy cream or use half-and-half instead.

Cheese Options: For a more intense cheese flavor, try adding a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella, or use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.

Storage/reheating

To store, let the pasta cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, simply microwave the pasta until warm or reheat it in a pan on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen up the sauce if necessary.

Related Recipes:

Creamy Parmesan One-Pot Chicken and Rice

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this pasta recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy.

What other herbs can I add to this recipe?

If you’re looking to change things up, I like to add fresh basil or oregano for extra flavor. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Can I use a different type of broth?

While beef broth gives this dish a rich flavor, you can easily substitute with chicken or vegetable broth if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the taste might be a bit lighter.

Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version. The sauce may be a bit thinner, but it will still be delicious!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This specific recipe is not gluten-free because it uses regular pasta. However, you can use gluten-free pasta if you need to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.

Conclusion

One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a perfect go-to dish for anyone looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or when I want something rich and flavorful without a lot of effort. Whether I’m cooking for myself or feeding the whole family, this dish is always a hit.

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