One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

Imagine twirling your fork into a bowl of rich, creamy pasta, loaded with tender beef and infused with the irresistible aroma of garlic butter. This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—hearty, flavorful, and unbelievably easy to make. With only one pot to wash, it’s the ultimate comfort food with minimal cleanup. Trust me, you’ll find yourself making this again and again!

Why You’ll Love One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner after a long day, impressing your friends with a restaurant-worthy dish, or just indulging in some creamy pasta bliss for yourself, this recipe has you covered. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Works with ground beef, Italian sausage, or even shredded chicken.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients without sacrificing flavor.
Quick and Easy: Ready in 30 minutes or less, all in one pot.
Customizable: Add veggies, switch up the pasta, or toss in extra cheese to make it your own.
Crowd-Pleasing: Creamy, garlicky, and cheesy—everyone will be asking for seconds.

This recipe strikes the perfect balance of richness and comfort, making it a true weeknight hero.

Ingredients in One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

Here’s what makes this dish so special—it’s made with simple, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully. Let’s break it down:

Ground Beef: Adds a savory, meaty base that flavors the entire dish.
Garlic Butter: The star of the show, giving every bite a rich, aromatic flavor.
Pasta (your choice): Penne, rotini, or fettuccine—whatever you have on hand works perfectly.
Beef Broth: Infuses the pasta with deep, hearty flavor as it cooks.
Heavy Cream: Creates that luscious, creamy sauce that clings to every piece of pasta.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish and thickens the sauce.
Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, Italian herbs, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
Fresh Parsley: For a bright, fresh garnish.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this creamy, dreamy pasta:

Preheat Your Equipment: While not baking, make sure you have a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven ready to go. One pot is all you need!

Cook the Beef: In the pot, melt a little butter over medium heat, then add the ground beef. Cook until browned and crumbly, draining excess grease if needed.

Add Garlic Butter: Stir in minced garlic and an extra tablespoon of butter, letting it sizzle until fragrant—this is where the magic happens.

Pour in Liquids and Pasta: Add the beef broth, heavy cream, and uncooked pasta directly into the pot. Stir to combine, making sure the pasta is submerged.

Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavorful liquid, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Add Cheese and Adjust: Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and herbs.

Finishing Touches: Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness.

Serve and Enjoy: Dish it up hot, and watch it disappear in minutes.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 480

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

This pasta is satisfying on its own, but you can elevate the meal with these serving ideas:

• With Garlic Bread: Double up on the garlic goodness.
• Side Salad: A crisp green salad balances the richness beautifully.
• Roasted Veggies: Add some roasted broccoli or asparagus for extra nutrition.
• Extra Parmesan: Always a good idea for cheese lovers.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to make this recipe flawless every time:

• Use short pasta like penne or fusilli for the best texture.
• Don’t overcook the pasta—keep it al dente for perfect bite.
• Add a splash of white wine with the broth for a gourmet touch.
• Stir frequently as it simmers to prevent sticking and ensure creaminess.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container; they reheat well with a splash of cream or milk.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground chicken or shredded cooked chicken works just as well.

2. Can I make this without heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.

3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers are great additions.

4. Does the pasta cook in the same pot?
Yes, that’s the beauty of this recipe—it absorbs flavor as it cooks.

5. Can I make it spicy?
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

6. What cheese works best?
Parmesan is classic, but you can also mix in mozzarella or asiago for extra creaminess.

7. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary.

8. How can I make it thicker?
Let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes or add more Parmesan to thicken the sauce.

9. Can I double this recipe?
Easily! Use a larger pot and double all ingredients proportionally.

10. How long do leftovers last?
About 3 days in the fridge, reheated gently with a bit of extra cream.

Conclusion

One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner—creamy, garlicky, and packed with flavor, all with minimal effort. It’s the perfect balance of rich sauce, tender beef, and pasta cooked to perfection. Make it once, and it’ll quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation. Grab your pot and get ready for a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious!

Print

Watch How to Make One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta