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
Scale
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.
