If you are on the hunt for a comforting, flavorful meal that comes together with minimal fuss, this One-Pot Creamy Beef & Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine tender pasta perfectly coated in a velvety garlic butter sauce, studded with savory browned beef, and kissed by the richness of Parmesan and cream—all cooked in a single pot to save you time and dishes. It’s the ultimate cozy dinner that balances hearty satisfaction with irresistible creaminess, making it a household favorite for weeknights or anytime you want a fuss-free, delicious meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this recipe so delightful is how simple, yet essential each ingredient is. Every item brings a unique touch—from the savory depth of the beef broth to the luscious, creamy texture from butter and cream. These ingredients come together to create a harmony of flavors and textures that make this dish truly special.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté the ground beef, adding a subtle fruity richness while preventing sticking.
- 1 pound ground beef: The heart of the dish, providing savory flavor and satisfying protein.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates that luscious, silky mouthfeel in the sauce and intensifies the garlic aroma.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced: Packs a punch of aromatic depth that elevates the entire dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that adds complexity and a hint of Mediterranean charm.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all other flavors without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of peppery warmth.
- 3 cups beef broth: The flavorful liquid base that tenderizes the pasta and blends the beefiness throughout.
- 2 cups milk: Contributes creaminess and balances the richness of the butter and cheese.
- 12 ounces short pasta (penne or rotini): Holds onto the sauce beautifully and cooks perfectly in the one-pot method.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings salty, nutty sharpness and naturally thickens the sauce.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Adds smoothness and luxurious richness to the final dish.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Brightens the plate with a pop of fresh color and subtle herbal note.
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Beef & Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the ground beef and let it cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s beautifully browned. This step is key to building that rich, meaty flavor. If you see excess fat, drain it off to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Add Butter, Garlic, and Seasonings
Next, melt in the unsalted butter right into the pot with your cooked beef. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Allow this mixture to cook for about 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. This step infuses the dish with incredible aroma that hints at the deliciousness to come.
Step 3: Pour in Liquids and Add Pasta
Pour the beef broth and milk directly into the pot, stirring everything together. Add the uncooked pasta and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This one-pot method means the pasta soaks up all those savory, creamy liquids as it cooks, soaking in all the flavors.
Step 4: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender
Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll know this step is done when the pasta is tender, and most of the liquid has been absorbed into a creamy sauce.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Cream
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes gloriously creamy. This final flourish ties together everything you’ve built so far for the ultimate indulgent pasta experience.
How to Serve One-Pot Creamy Beef & Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is a great topping that adds a burst of color and lifts the dish with a subtle freshness. For an extra touch, you might sprinkle a little more Parmesan or add some cracked black pepper on top, enhancing both the look and taste.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta pairs well with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even a side of garlic bread. Each side provides balance—the salad offering refreshing bite, the bread delivering crunch and more garlic flavor to complement the creamy pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to jazz it up for guests or family dinners, serve this pasta in warming bowls garnished with extra herbs and perhaps a drizzle of good quality olive oil. For a fun twist, add some sautéed spinach or peas right before serving to bring vibrant color and a nutritional boost.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a handy option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to freeze leftovers, do so before adding cream or cheese. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating and stirring in fresh cheese and cream.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or microwave in short bursts to keep the sauce creamy without drying out. Stir in a splash of milk or broth while reheating to refresh the sauce’s consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Definitely. Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped in for a lighter version. Just adjust cooking times slightly, as these meats sometimes cook faster than beef.
What pasta works best in this recipe?
Short, tubular pasta like penne or rotini is perfect because it holds the creamy sauce well and cooks evenly in the one-pot method.
Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
Yes! Adding spinach, peas, or even mushrooms toward the end of cooking is a great way to boost nutrition and flavor without compromising creaminess.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely. The creamy, cheesy texture and familiar flavors usually appeal to kids. Adjust seasoning to suit your family’s taste if needed.
How can I make this dish cheesier?
Stir in extra Parmesan or some shredded mozzarella just before serving. A sprinkle of cheddar also works if you want a richer cheese flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a meal that’s both scrumptiously creamy and effortlessly simple, and this One-Pot Creamy Beef & Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe hits that sweet spot perfectly. It’s a dish that welcomes you home with its warm, comforting flavors while leaving you plenty of time to relax. You simply must try it—you won’t look back once this becomes your go-to weeknight favorite!
Print
One-Pot Creamy Beef & Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This One-Pot Creamy Beef & Garlic Butter Pasta is a comforting, hearty dinner perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef cooked with garlic and Italian seasonings is combined with pasta, beef broth, and milk to create a rich, creamy sauce. Parmesan cheese and heavy cream add silky texture and depth of flavor, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley brings a fresh finish. This easy stovetop meal delivers satisfying flavors with minimal cleanup, making it ideal for family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cups milk
- 12 ounces short pasta (like penne or rotini)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté garlic and seasonings: Add butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the browned beef. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add liquids and pasta: Pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring to combine all ingredients. Add the uncooked pasta and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Simmer the pasta: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and cook for 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to check pasta doneness. Continue cooking until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish with cheese and cream: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve the pasta hot for a rich, satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein alternative.
- Add spinach or peas towards the end of cooking for extra vegetables and nutrients.
- For a cheesier dish, stir in additional Parmesan or shredded mozzarella cheese.
