One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors in a convenient manner. With savory ground beef, fragrant garlic butter, and a creamy parmesan sauce, this pasta is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. It’s not only easy to prepare but also provides a comforting meal that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner.
- One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy hassle-free cleanup with everything cooked in a single pot.
- Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and parmesan creates a luxurious sauce that elevates the pasta.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use any pasta shape you have on hand, such as penne or rotini, to make it your own.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools at hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large deep skillet or pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large deep skillet or pot: This allows for even cooking of the beef and pasta while providing ample space for simmering.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: A sturdy utensil is crucial for breaking up the beef and stirring the ingredients together without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
This rich and creamy pasta dish is made with savory ground beef, garlic butter, and a luscious parmesan sauce, all cooked together in one pot for easy cleanup. It’s the perfect comfort food for a quick and satisfying dinner!
For the Base
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Sauce
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cups milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
For the Pasta
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
For Finishing Touches
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
Step 1: Heat Olive Oil
Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat.
Step 2: Cook Ground Beef
Add ground beef and cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking it up until browned.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices
Stir in garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Incorporate Broth and Milk
Pour in beef broth and milk. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Add Pasta
Add pasta and Italian seasoning, ensuring that most of the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
Step 6: Simmer
Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender.
Step 7: Stir in Cheese and Butter
Reduce heat to low and stir in parmesan cheese and butter until melted and creamy.
Step 8: Adjust Seasoning
Taste your dish; if needed, adjust seasoning. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of milk or broth.
Step 9: Garnish
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan before serving.
Step 10: Serve
Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad for an extra touch!
Enjoy your One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta, perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your dining experience.
With Garlic Bread
- Toasted garlic bread complements the creamy sauce perfectly, adding a crunchy texture and rich flavor.
Topped with Extra Parmesan
- A sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese adds a delightful nutty flavor that elevates the dish further.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil on top adds color and freshness, balancing the richness of the pasta.
Accompanied by a Side Salad
- A light side salad with mixed greens offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta, making for a well-rounded meal.
Paired with Roasted Vegetables
- Roasted seasonal vegetables provide a healthy side that pairs well with the savory flavors of the beef and pasta.
Served in Individual Bowls
- Presenting the pasta in individual bowls enhances the dining experience and makes it feel more gourmet.

How to Perfect One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
This dish is easy to make, but small adjustments can enhance its flavor and texture.
- Use Quality Beef: High-quality ground beef will make your dish richer and more flavorful.
- Adjust the Creaminess: For a creamier sauce, substitute milk with heavy cream or add more parmesan.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on your pasta while it cooks to ensure it remains al dente.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices like Italian seasoning or add herbs for personal taste.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skip garnishing; fresh herbs or additional cheese can elevate your dish’s presentation.
- Make it Ahead: This dish reheats well, so consider making it ahead for quick meals throughout the week.
Best Side Dishes for One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
Pairing sides with your One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: Classic choice that’s perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce dressed in Caesar dressing adds crunch and flavor.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli brings nutrients and balances out the richness.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offers a fresh taste.
- Roasted Asparagus: Simple roasted asparagus adds a touch of elegance to your meal.
- Bruschetta: Tasty toasted bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and basil for a fresh appetizer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience and the dish’s flavor.
- Skipping seasoning: Not seasoning the beef adequately can lead to bland pasta. Always season your meat generously with salt and pepper.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long in the broth can make it mushy. Follow the recommended cooking time and check for doneness.
- Ignoring the stirring: Failing to stir occasionally can cause pasta to stick to the bottom of the pot. Stir at least every few minutes for even cooking.
- Not adjusting the sauce: If your sauce is too thick, not adding a splash of milk or broth can result in a dry dish. Always adjust based on your preference for creaminess.
- Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese may not melt well or provide that rich flavor. Opt for freshly grated parmesan for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
- Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth as needed for moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! You can substitute penne with rotini, fettuccine, or any pasta you prefer.
How do I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some hot sauce while cooking.
What can I serve with One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta?
This dish pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Can I customize ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
Final Thoughts
One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a comforting dish that brings joy to any dinner table. Its simplicity makes it perfect for busy weeknights, while its creamy texture invites customization. Try adding your favorite veggies or spices to make it uniquely yours!
One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a quick and satisfying dish that combines the rich flavors of savory ground beef, aromatic garlic butter, and a creamy parmesan sauce—all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this comforting meal can be made in just 30 minutes! With its creamy texture and delightful taste, it’s a dish that everyone will love and request again and again. Customize it with your favorite pasta shape and enjoy a hearty dinner that feels indulgent without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cups milk
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking it up until browned.
- Stir in garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes; cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in beef broth and milk; stir to combine.
- Add pasta and Italian seasoning, ensuring pasta is mostly submerged.
- Bring to a simmer; cover and cook for 12-15 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Reduce heat to low; stir in parmesan cheese and butter until melted and creamy.
- Adjust seasoning if needed; garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 280g)
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 80mg








