This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a rich, indulgent dish that combines tender ground beef, al dente pasta, and a luscious garlic butter cream sauce—all made in a single pot for easy cleanup. Packed with savory flavors and creamy textures, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving comfort food without the hassle.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, fusilli, or fettuccine work well)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or Parmesan cheese for a sharper flavor)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute, until fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings:
- Pour in the beef broth, heavy cream, and butter. Stir in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Add the uncooked pasta to the pot, pressing it down gently to ensure it’s submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add Cheese and Finish:
- Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot directly from the pot.
Tips and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a meatless version. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Spice It Up: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Cheese Swap: Try substituting mozzarella with cheddar, Gruyère, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Add Veggies: Toss in frozen peas, diced bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes along with the pasta for added nutrition.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Yield
Serves 4–6 people, depending on portion size.
This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a decadent, comforting dish that’s quick to prepare and even quicker to clean up. With its creamy sauce, savory beef, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t miss out on this recipe—it’s a true winner!
