One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

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When I say this pasta is pure comfort in a bowl, I mean it. Imagine the coziness of rich garlic butter melting into creamy pasta, all swirled around savory browned beef. This recipe came to life on a rainy night when I needed something hearty, simple, and soul-satisfying. I opened the fridge, spotted some ground beef and a stick of butter, and the rest came together in one glorious pan.

The first bite blew me away. That dreamy sauce, made creamy without needing a ton of cheese or cream, clings perfectly to each noodle. The garlic isn’t overpowering; instead, it wraps around the beef and pasta with warmth and depth. Best of all? No mountain of dirty dishes after dinner. Just one pan, a wooden spoon, and a happy belly.

This pasta instantly earned a spot on my weeknight rotation, and I can tell you it’s become one of those recipes that everyone in my family requests on repeat. If you’re a fan of rich flavors and quick comfort, you’re going to fall hard for this.

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

First off, it all comes together in one pan, which makes cleanup a breeze. But beyond the ease, it’s the flavor that truly wins. The browned beef builds a meaty base, garlic butter adds a luxurious touch, and the creamy sauce binds everything in the most irresistible way. The texture is rich and velvety, yet not heavy, which means you can enjoy a generous bowl without feeling weighed down.

It’s versatile, too. You can use penne, rotini, or egg noodles—whatever pasta you have in the pantry. Plus, the recipe is easy to tweak depending on what’s in your fridge. It’s comfort food without the fuss, and it tastes like you spent hours when in reality it takes less than 30 minutes.

If you love recipes like Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta or the creamy richness of Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts, this one will be right up your alley. It’s dinner-table magic, made simple.

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

Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a large skillet or deep pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and 1 pound of ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, and let it brown evenly. Once cooked through, drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic in Butter
In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, stir in 4 to 5 minced garlic cloves. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, making sure not to burn the garlic.

Step 3: Add Broth, Pasta, and Simmer
Pour in 3 cups of beef broth and stir in 12 ounces of uncooked pasta (penne or rotini work great). Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Beef
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in ¾ cup of heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option). Return the cooked ground beef to the pan. Mix everything together and let it simmer uncovered for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Finish and Serve
Turn off the heat, sprinkle in some freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if you like. Serve immediately while it’s hot and creamy.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Want to make this dish your own? Here are a few delicious ways to switch things up:

• Cheese Swap: Instead of Parmesan, try Asiago or a mix of Italian shredded cheeses for different flavor profiles.
• Cream Options: Substitute the heavy cream with evaporated milk, sour cream, or even cream cheese for a tangier twist.
• Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes along with the cream for added nutrition and depth.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Pasta Choices: Any short pasta like fusilli, shells, or even egg noodles works well here.

With just a few swaps, you can transform this creamy beef pasta into something fresh and new each time.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This creamy beef and garlic butter pasta is a star on its own, but it plays so well with others. I love serving it with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette—the tanginess cuts through the richness beautifully. A side of roasted broccoli or steamed green beans adds a lovely contrast in both texture and color.

For a bit of indulgence, garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for mopping up every last bit of the sauce. And if you’re serving guests, a glass of red wine like Merlot or a chilled white like Chardonnay pairs wonderfully, depending on your mood.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store any extra pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more irresistible the next day.

To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce, and warm it over medium heat on the stovetop. Stir frequently to keep it creamy. You can also microwave it in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until hot all the way through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it up to 2 days in advance. Just reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creamy consistency.

What kind of ground beef should I use?

I recommend 85/15 for a good balance of flavor and minimal grease. Leaner beef works too, but may be slightly less juicy.

Can I freeze this pasta?

You can, though the sauce may separate a little upon thawing. If freezing, let it cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Reheat gently and stir well.

Is there a dairy-free version?

You can use plant-based butter, dairy-free cream alternatives like oat or coconut cream, and skip the cheese or use a vegan Parmesan substitute.

What can I use instead of beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage work great. Just be sure to season accordingly to match the protein you choose.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you love this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta, there are plenty of other rich, comforting recipes on my site you should definitely check out. The Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta brings in sun-dried tomatoes and spinach for a flavor-packed meal with a similar creamy base.

Another favorite is Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts – it shares that luscious garlic-butter profile and goes great over rice or mashed potatoes. For a cozy casserole vibe, don’t miss the Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti. These are all hearty, satisfying meals perfect for weeknights.

Don’t Forget to Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If this creamy pasta made your night as good as it made mine, don’t forget to save it for your next craving! Pin it to your favorite comfort food board on Pinterest so it’s always within reach.

Sharing is caring, especially when it comes to pasta. Send it to a friend who needs a weeknight win, share it on Facebook or Instagram, or email it to someone looking for dinner inspiration. Every share helps others discover a new favorite, and I love seeing your versions too—tag me when you make it!

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