If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dinner that comes together effortlessly, this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. Imagine tender pasta perfectly cooked in a rich, garlicky cream sauce with savory ground beef, all in one pot—no extra dishes, no fuss. It’s the kind of meal that hugs you from the inside out, offering bold flavors and creamy textures with every spoonful. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend, this dish delivers satisfying goodness without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of this list—the ingredients are everyday essentials that come together to create an unforgettable flavor profile. Each component plays its role, from the fragrant garlic and Italian seasoning that add aromatics, to the creamy blend of beef broth and heavy cream, which makes the sauce irresistibly luscious.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps brown the beef perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Provides richness and depth to the sauce’s garlic butter base.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein that makes this dish satisfying and filling.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced: Imparts a punch of aromatic flavor that is simply essential.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that brightens the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle heat for those who like a little kick.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Basic but vital seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
- 3 cups beef broth: Forms the savory liquid base for cooking the pasta and intensifies the beef flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce decadently creamy and smooth.
- 10 ounces uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or similar): The star carbohydrate that soaks up all the lovely sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that binds everything together.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): For a fresh pop of color and subtle herbal note.
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Garlic
Start by heating olive oil and butter together in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with your spatula so every bit gets a glorious sear. This step locks in the savory flavors and builds the base for your sauce. Once browned, stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook this mixture for a minute or two until the garlic releases its irresistible aroma, making your kitchen smell like heaven.
Step 2: Add Liquids and Pasta
Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine that creamy, savory base. Then, add your uncooked pasta directly into the pot and give everything a good stir to distribute the ingredients evenly. Bring this to a gentle boil, which wakes up the pasta and starts the cooking magic in one pot. The beef broth infuses the noodles with a rich flavor, while the cream adds that luscious texture.
Step 3: Simmer Until Pasta is Perfect
Reduce the heat to a simmer, then cover the pot. Let it cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking to the bottom. During this time, the pasta will absorb the flavorful liquid, becoming tender yet perfectly al dente. The sauce will thicken naturally, offering that dreamy creamy consistency you can’t resist.
Step 4: Finish with Parmesan and Rest
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This step turns the sauce silky and rich, creating that beautiful cheesy embrace around the noodles and beef. Let the dish sit for about five minutes to thicken just a little more—this waiting game really pays off in flavor and texture.
How to Serve One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a vivid green contrast and a fresh, herbal lift to your plate. For extra indulgence, add an extra dusting of Parmesan or a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil for a shiny, appetizing finish.
Side Dishes
Since this is such a hearty, creamy main, pairing it with lighter sides works beautifully. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans adds balance and texture to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this pasta in individual ramekins or shallow bowls topped with a bit of toasted breadcrumbs for crunch. You can also swirl in some sautéed spinach or peas right before serving to sneak in some healthy greens without sacrificing flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe keeps well refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after resting, making it great for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be aware the texture of the pasta might soften slightly upon thawing, but the creamy flavor remains delightful.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened too much. Stir often to warm it evenly and keep that luscious creaminess intact.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works perfectly as a lighter alternative, and it still soaks up the garlic butter sauce beautifully.
What pasta shapes work best in this recipe?
Penne, rotini, or any short pasta with grooves or twists absorb the sauce nicely, but feel free to experiment with your favorites to see what you like best.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with olive oil and use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative to keep the dish creamy while avoiding dairy.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely. Frozen peas or fresh spinach stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking add color, nutrition, and freshness without complicating the dish.
How spicy is the recipe with the red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a mild heat that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the creamy sauce. You can always adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance or leave them out altogether.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner for anyone looking to whip up something hearty, comforting, and unbelievably delicious in under 30 minutes. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but special enough to share with friends and family. Give it a try—you might just find it becoming a beloved staple in your recipe rotation.
