Rich, cozy, and ready in under 30 minutes
When you need a dinner that’s comforting, filling, and doesn’t leave your kitchen looking like a disaster zone, this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is the answer. Tender beef, buttery garlic, and a silky cream sauce come together in one pan for a meal that tastes indulgent but is incredibly easy to make. Perfect for busy weeknights and guaranteed to be a family favorite.
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2½ cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work best)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
🍴 Equipment Needed
- Large deep skillet or wide pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Season lightly with salt and black pepper. Once fully cooked, drain excess grease if needed.
Step 2: Add Garlic Butter
Reduce heat slightly and add the butter to the pan. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for about 30–60 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
Step 3: Build the Sauce Base
Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
Step 4: Add Pasta and Seasoning
Stir in the uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Make sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid so it cooks evenly.
Step 5: Simmer Until Tender
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Let it melt into the sauce, creating a creamy, glossy finish. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
Step 7: Serve
Remove from heat and let rest for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
💡 Tips for Best Results
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of warm beef broth or milk to loosen it.
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if preferred.
- Add mushrooms or spinach during the last few minutes for extra texture and nutrition.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy pasta with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Garlic bread or crusty bread makes the perfect side for soaking up every bit of the sauce.
