One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

If you’re craving a rich and creamy pasta dish that’s packed with flavor but doesn’t require a ton of cleanup, this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is the perfect recipe for you. Tender ground beef is combined with garlic butter sauce and creamy pasta to create a comforting, hearty meal. And the best part? It all cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re feeding the family or just need something easy for a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder – No need for multiple pans; everything cooks in one pot for easy cleanup.
• Rich & Creamy – A silky garlic butter sauce envelops the pasta, creating a comforting and indulgent dish.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Hearty & Filling – Ground beef adds protein and flavor, making it a filling meal that’s sure to satisfy.
• Customizable – Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or seasonings for a personalized twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Beef:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken if preferred)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (optional)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme (optional for added flavor)
• 1 tsp dried basil (optional for an aromatic touch)
• 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or any other short pasta)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using).
3. Break the beef into small pieces as it cooks. Cook for 5-7 minutes until fully browned and no longer pink.
4. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Stir in the thyme and basil (if using), and cook for another 30 seconds to release the flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. Add 2 cups of beef broth to the skillet and bring it to a boil.
2. Stir in the pasta, making sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid.
3. Lower the heat to medium and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Cheese

1. Once the pasta is cooked, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir well to combine.
2. Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Return the Beef & Finish

1. Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet, stirring it in to combine with the creamy sauce and pasta.
2. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the beef to heat through.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

1. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
2. Serve immediately, and enjoy your creamy, savory pasta!

Tips for Perfect One-Pot Pasta

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Keep an eye on the pasta while it’s simmering. Overcooking it can result in mushy pasta, so aim for al dente texture.
• Use Fresh Garlic – Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor in the garlic butter sauce.
• Add More Vegetables – If you like, you can add veggies such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the dish for added nutrition and flavor.
• Adjust the Creaminess – For a thicker sauce, add a bit more Parmesan cheese or let the sauce simmer longer. For a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of cream or use milk instead.
• Use Ground Turkey or Chicken – If you want a lighter version, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can even use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic Bread – Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Green Salad – A crisp, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect complement to this rich and creamy dish.
• Steamed Vegetables – Pair with steamed broccoli or asparagus for a healthy side dish that balances the richness of the pasta.
• A Glass of Wine – A light white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with the creamy, savory flavors of this dish.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to loosen up the sauce if needed.
• Microwave: Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   • Yes! Any short pasta such as penne, rotini, or rigatoni will work. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you use.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge once it has cooled and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
   • Yes, you can use dairy-free butter and a dairy-free cream alternative to make this dish dairy-free. For the cheese, try a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
   • If you prefer more heat, add some red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce or mix in some hot sauce when you add the cream.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is the ultimate weeknight meal—quick, easy, and indulgent. With tender pasta, rich garlic butter sauce, and savory ground beef, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Plus, with just one pot to clean, it makes dinner a breeze!

Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! Don’t forget to leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest. I can’t wait to see how you make this creamy pasta dish your own!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 550 | Protein: 30g | Carbohydrates: 45g | Fat: 30g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 700mg

Print