One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
If you’re craving a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is exactly what you need. Imagine tender pasta cooked directly in flavorful beef broth, seasoned ground beef infused with garlic butter, and a luscious creamy sauce made with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. The best part? Everything comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you want to impress your family with minimal effort. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a dish that’s rich, hearty, and absolutely irresistible.
Why This Recipe Works
One-Pot Convenience: Pasta, beef, and sauce all cook together, which means fewer dishes and maximum flavor.
Bold Flavors: Garlic butter creates a rich base, while Italian herbs and paprika add depth.
Creamy Perfection: The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella guarantees a silky, cheesy sauce.
Family-Friendly: A kid-approved recipe that adults love too.
Customizable: Easy to swap pasta shapes, proteins, or even add veggies for a healthier twist.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need:
1 lb ground beef – Lean beef works well to avoid too much grease, but you can use regular ground beef for a richer flavor.
8 oz pasta – Penne, rotini, or any short pasta that holds sauce beautifully.
4 cups beef broth – Infuses the pasta with a deep, meaty flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps the beef brown evenly.
3 tablespoons butter – Creates the signature garlic butter richness.
4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is best for strong, aromatic flavor.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary.
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – For a hint of heat.
½ teaspoon paprika – Adds smokiness and color.
Salt and black pepper to taste – Season generously.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Gives the sauce a salty, nutty flavor.
½ cup heavy cream – Essential for a rich, velvety texture.
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts into the sauce for gooey cheesiness.
2 tablespoons chopped parsley – For freshness and garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
If there’s excess grease, drain it carefully.
Step 2: Add Garlic Butter and Seasonings
Stir in the butter until melted.
Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Cook for 1–2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the beef is coated with buttery spices.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta in Broth
Pour in beef broth and add the uncooked pasta.
Stir to ensure pasta is submerged.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella.
Mix well until cheese is fully melted and sauce becomes creamy.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove from heat and let the dish sit for 3–5 minutes to thicken.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Tips for Success
Don’t overcook the pasta → It will continue to soften in the creamy sauce after resting.
Adjust creaminess → For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
Make it ahead → Cook and refrigerate. Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.
Balance the flavors → Always taste and adjust salt, pepper, and Parmesan to suit your liking.
Variations & Substitutions
Different proteins: Use ground chicken, turkey, or Italian sausage instead of beef.
Veggie boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, peas, or zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking.
Cheese lovers: Swap mozzarella for provolone or add extra Parmesan for stronger flavor.
Spicy twist: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta and check broth labels.
What to Serve With Creamy Beef Pasta
Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks.
A crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens.
Roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or zucchini.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth, milk, or cream to restore creaminess.
Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 640 kcal
Protein: 32 g
Carbs: 52 g
Fat: 34 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 3 g
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?
Yes, but beef broth provides a richer, meatier flavor.
Q: What pasta shape works best?
Short pastas like penne, rotini, or rigatoni hold the creamy sauce better than spaghetti or linguine.
Q: How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
Skip the beef and replace it with mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based meat substitutes.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just make sure your pot is large enough to hold the extra broth and pasta.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and bursting with garlic-butter flavor. It’s quick enough for weeknights but satisfying enough to serve at family gatherings. Once you make it, it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with substitutions, this dish proves that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. One pot, 30 minutes, endless comfort—what more could you ask for?