If you’re looking for a meal that brings together comfort, flavor, and simplicity all in one pot, you are going to fall head over heels for this One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe. Imagine tender ground beef mingling with rich garlic butter, mingled with perfectly cooked pasta in a luscious, creamy sauce that holds so many layers of flavor. It’s an uncomplicated dish that somehow feels special — ideal for busy weeknights or whenever you want a cozy, satisfying dinner without a lot of fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully straightforward but work beautifully together to create a rich, savory, and creamy pasta experience. Each component adds a distinct touch: the ground beef brings hearty depth, garlic butter infuses irresistible aroma, and the Parmesan cheese finishes with a sharp, creamy note.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides savory meatiness and satisfying texture to the dish.
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni): Holds the creamy sauce perfectly with its tube-like shape.
- 2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps carry the garlic flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Packs a fragrant punch that wakes up every bite.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cups beef broth: Creates a flavorful cooking liquid to infuse the pasta.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Gives the sauce a silky, luxurious texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brightens and thickens the sauce with its nutty flavor.
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning: Brings herbs that complement the beef and garlic beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a touch of heat if you like a little spice.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essentials for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Offers freshness and a pop of green color at the end.
How to Make One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Begin by melting the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up with your spoon as it cooks. This step creates a rich base full of meaty flavor that will soak into every bite of pasta.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Let them cook together until the onions become translucent and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. This combination will fill your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma and build layers of flavor to the dish.
Step 3: Add Broth, Pasta, and Seasonings
Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add your pasta, making sure it’s mostly submerged in the liquid. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes if you want a subtle kick, and season with salt and pepper. This broth will infuse the pasta with savory goodness as it cooks.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta Covered
Cover your pot and let the pasta cook according to the package instructions, stirring occasionally to stop it from sticking. You want the pasta al dente and the liquid mostly absorbed, which usually takes about 10 to 12 minutes. This one pot method means less cleanup and deeply flavorful pasta.
Step 5: Stir in Cream and Parmesan
Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan. This is where the sauce transforms into a smooth, creamy, and utterly irresistible finish. Keep stirring until everything is well combined and luscious.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Garnish
Give your pasta a final taste, adjusting salt and pepper as needed to suit your palate. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a bright, fresh note and beautiful presentation. Now it’s ready to enjoy!
How to Serve One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley goes a long way in adding color and a burst of freshness to the creamy richness. You can also add a few extra shavings of Parmesan cheese on top for an indulgent touch.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables to add texture and brighten the meal. Garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser here if you crave a little crunch and carb overload.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pasta in rustic bowls and add edible flowers or microgreens for a restaurant-style presentation at home. You could also top it with crispy fried onions or toasted breadcrumbs for a delightful contrast in texture that elevates the entire dish into something special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors marry even better after resting, making it an excellent option for quick next-day meals.
Freezing
This One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe freezes well. Freeze in portioned airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove or microwave.
Reheating
When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce, as pasta tends to absorb liquid while stored. Warm gently on low heat and stir often to bring back that creamy texture without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or rigatoni work best to catch the sauce inside their tubes, feel free to use fusilli, farfalle, or any pasta you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta variety. Just ensure to check the cooking time on the package since gluten-free pasta can cook differently.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Chopped spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini would be wonderful additions to add color, nutrition, and extra flavor. Add them when sautéing the onion for best results.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, whole milk or half-and-half can work but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk or cashew cream can be fantastic alternatives.
How spicy is this recipe with crushed red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a mild to moderate heat that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering it. You can always omit or reduce them if you prefer no spice.
Final Thoughts
Making this One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe is like inviting delicious comfort to your table with minimal effort. It’s hearty, creamy, and full of vibrant flavor that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how much joy a one pot meal can bring to your weeknight cooking routine.
Print
One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and flavorful one-pot meal featuring ground beef, garlic butter, and tender pasta cooked together in a savory broth, finished with cream and Parmesan cheese for a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick and hearty dinner with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta and Broth
- 12 oz pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
- 2 cups beef broth
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion is softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Broth and Pasta: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the pasta, ensuring it is covered by the broth. Season with Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Pasta: Cover the pot and cook the pasta according to package instructions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed, about 10-12 minutes.
- Make Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Adjust Seasoning and Garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or shells that hold sauce well.
- For a spicier dish, increase crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
- If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of beef broth or water.
- To make it lighter, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use reduced-fat cheese.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
