Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

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One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta – Rich, Savory & Ready in 30 Minutes

Tender pasta simmered in beef broth with garlic butter, ground beef, and melty cheese—all in one pot

Introduction: A Weeknight Wonder That Delivers Big Flavor

When life gets busy, dinner needs to be fast, comforting, and delicious. This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta checks every box. It’s rich, savory, and packed with flavor from garlic butter, Italian herbs, and a trio of cheeses. Best of all? It comes together in just one pot—no draining, no fuss, and minimal cleanup.

Perfect for weeknights, cozy weekends, or feeding a hungry crowd, this pasta is a guaranteed hit. The beef adds heartiness, the garlic butter brings depth, and the creamy cheese sauce ties it all together in a silky, satisfying finish.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this pasta so irresistible:

Protein:

  • Ground beef (1 lb)
    Adds richness and savory depth—perfect for a hearty base.

Optional: Use ground turkey or sausage for a twist.

Pasta & Broth:

  • Pasta (8 oz, penne or rotini)
    Holds sauce beautifully and cooks directly in the broth.
  • Beef broth (4 cups)
    Infuses the pasta with flavor as it simmers.

Tip: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.

Garlic Butter Base:

  • Olive oil (1 tbsp)
    Helps brown the beef and adds richness.
  • Butter (3 tbsp)
    Creates the garlic butter base—essential for flavor.
  • Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
    Adds bold, aromatic depth.
  • Italian seasoning (1 tsp)
    Brings herbal notes and balance.
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (½ tsp, optional)
    Adds heat—adjust to taste.
  • Paprika (½ tsp)
    Adds warmth and color.
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)
    Essential for seasoning.

Optional: Add onion powder or fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Creamy Cheese Sauce:

  • Heavy cream (½ cup)
    Adds richness and silkiness.
  • Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated)
    Adds salty, nutty depth.
  • Mozzarella cheese (½ cup, shredded)
    Melts into the sauce for gooey texture.

Tip: Use freshly grated cheese for best melt and flavor.

Garnish:

  • Chopped parsley (2 tbsp)
    Adds freshness and color.

Optional: Top with extra Parmesan or chili flakes.

Equipment Needed

  • Large deep skillet or Dutch oven
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Ladle or serving spoon

Tip: Use a heavy-bottomed pot for even cooking and better flavor development.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven:

  • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add 1 lb ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

Drain excess grease if needed.

Tip: Don’t overcook—just until no pink remains.

Step 2: Build the Garlic Butter Base

Add:

  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 4 minced garlic cloves
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes, until garlic is fragrant.

Optional: Add a splash of white wine for extra depth.

Step 3: Simmer the Pasta

Pour in:

  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 8 oz uncooked pasta

Stir well and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until:

  • Pasta is tender
  • Liquid is mostly absorbed

Tip: Stir gently to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Stir in:

  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella

Mix until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.

Let sit off heat for 3–5 minutes to thicken slightly.

Optional: Add a splash of broth or cream if sauce is too thick.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with 2 tbsp chopped parsley.

Serve hot with:

  • Garlic bread
  • Side salad
  • Roasted vegetables

Yields:

  • 4 servings

Presentation Tip: Serve in shallow bowls with extra cheese on top.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Cozy weekends
  • Family meals
  • Potluck parties

Pair with:

  • Caesar salad
  • Roasted broccoli
  • Crusty bread
  • Red wine or iced tea

Tip: Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh contrast.

Variations to Try

Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:

Mushroom Beef Pasta

Add sautéed mushrooms for earthy flavor.

French Onion Style

Add caramelized onions and Swiss cheese.

Spicy Cajun Pasta

Use Cajun seasoning and extra chili flakes.

Veggie Boost

Add spinach, zucchini, or peas.

Lighter Version

Use half-and-half and lean beef.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Cook and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigerate: Store in airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat gently.

Tip: Add a splash of broth when reheating to restore creaminess.

Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 4)

  • Calories: ~640
  • Protein: ~30g
  • Carbohydrates: ~45g
  • Fat: ~38g
  • Sugar: ~3g
  • Sodium: ~600mg
  • Fiber: ~3g

This pasta is:

  • Creamy and savory
  • Quick and easy
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of flavor, simplicity, and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, it’s guaranteed to satisfy and impress.

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