If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender pasta cooked right alongside savory ground beef, all swirled into a luscious, garlicky butter sauce that’s both rich and satisfying. This recipe packs layers of flavor and texture into one easy pot, cutting down on cleanup while maxing out on taste. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or just treating yourself, this dish has that perfect blend of creamy, meaty, and buttery goodness that makes dinner feel special every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe lies in its simple, everyday ingredients that are easy to find but essential for building depth of flavor and that unforgettable creamy texture. Each component plays a special role, making this dish not just delicious but truly comforting.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein that adds savory richness and satisfying texture.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Provides a luscious base for the garlic and helps create that silky sauce.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the whole dish with aromatic warmth and bright flavor.
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced: Adds subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cups beef broth: The flavorful liquid that melds everything together while cooking the pasta.
- 2 cups milk: Contributes creaminess and rounds out the sauce’s texture.
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini): These shapes hold the sauce beautifully and cook perfectly in one pot.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of all ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and balances the creaminess.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a hint of herbal freshness and classic Italian flair.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little extra heat to contrast the creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and salty depth.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, stringy perfection for ultimate creaminess.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note to finish.
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by melting the butter in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. When it’s bubbling, toss in the minced garlic and finely diced onion. Cook these gently for 2 to 3 minutes until they become fragrant and soften beautifully. This step is crucial because it lays the fragrant, flavorful foundation that will elevate the entire dish.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with your spoon or spatula as it cooks. Let it brown evenly for about 5 to 6 minutes. You’ll want to build rich flavor here and avoid steaming the meat, so give it room to brown. If the pot releases excess fat, feel free to drain it off before moving on to keep the sauce from getting greasy.
Step 3: Combine Liquids, Seasonings, and Pasta
Pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring well to scrape any browned bits off the pot’s bottom. Add the uncooked pasta along with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Give everything a good stir to make sure the pasta is submerged and evenly distributed. This is where the magic happens as the pasta cooks right in the flavorful broth and milk.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid. Let the pasta simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, which creates that rich, creamy consistency we love in this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe.
Step 5: Stir in Cheese for Ultimate Creaminess
Remove the lid and gently fold in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until they melt into the sauce, making it irresistibly creamy and gooey. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. This final cheese swirl brings everything together—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
How to Serve One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top not only adds a bright pop of green but also a fresh, herby note that cuts through the creamy richness. You can also add an extra dusting of Parmesan or a few flakes of crushed red pepper if you want a little heat and extra flavor boost.
Side Dishes
This pasta is satisfying enough on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables to add contrasting textures and fresh elements to the plate. Garlic bread or a simple crusty baguette are wonderful for mopping up every last bit of the creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this pasta in individual oven-safe bowls and broil with an extra sprinkle of mozzarella to melt and turn golden for a bubbly, gratin-style finish. Or top with a fried egg for brunch vibes—nothing elevates creamy beef pasta quite like a runny yolk drizzled on top!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making reheated portions even tastier.
Freezing
This dish freezes well but keep in mind that the texture of the pasta might soften a bit upon thawing. Use a freezer-safe container and it should last for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and refresh that creamy texture. Stir frequently to heat evenly and prevent sticking.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Penne and rotini work great for holding the sauce, but fusilli, rigatoni, or even shells can be swapped in without any problem. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly if using a pasta that cooks faster or slower.
What can I add to make this recipe more vegetable-packed?
Great question! Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be added during the sauté step or stirred in just before adding the liquids. They add extra nutrients, texture, and brighten the dish nicely.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with olive oil and use dairy-free milk alternatives such as almond or oat milk. For cheese, vegan cheese options work well, though the flavor and creaminess might vary slightly.
How spicy is the One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe?
The spice level is mild by default since red pepper flakes are optional. If you want a little heat, add the red pepper flakes as suggested or increase the amount slightly to suit your preference.
Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?
Definitely! Ground chicken or turkey are great lean alternatives. Keep in mind the flavors will be lighter, so you might want to increase the seasoning or add extra herbs to keep the flavor punchy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about gathering everything in one pot and ending up with a creamy, flavorful dinner ready in under 30 minutes—something this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe does effortlessly. It’s the kind of meal that feels homemade, hearty, and a little indulgent, yet is surprisingly simple to pull off any night of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a regular in your rotation—you’re going to love how cozy and satisfying it tastes.
Print
One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a comforting and easy weeknight dinner. Ground beef is cooked with garlic and onion, then simmered with pasta in a rich, creamy sauce made from beef broth, milk, and melted cheeses. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this hearty dish combines bold flavors and creamy textures without the mess of multiple pots.
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- chopped parsley for garnish
Liquids
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups milk (or substitute with half-and-half or heavy cream for a richer sauce)
Dry Ingredients and Spices
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: In a large pot or deep skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and finely diced onion, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary to prevent greasiness.
- Add liquids and pasta: Stir in the beef broth, milk, uncooked pasta, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish with cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the dish with chopped parsley and serve hot for a deliciously creamy and satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk for a richer sauce.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition.
- This dish reheats well with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
