This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together tender ground beef, rich garlic butter, and creamy pasta in one easy dish. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way it transforms everyday ingredients into a satisfying, flavorful meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines savory beef, a silky creamy sauce, and al dente pasta, all cooked in a single pot for easy cleanup.

One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy beef and garlic butter pasta will quickly become a family favorite because it’s packed with bold flavors and is super easy to make. The garlic butter provides a rich base, while the ground beef adds a hearty touch. As the pasta cooks in the same pot, it soaks up all the delicious flavors, making each bite irresistible. It’s creamy, savory, and full of texture, offering the perfect balance of comfort and indulgence. Best of all, it’s a one-pot wonder, saving you time on both cooking and cleaning!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, finely chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the pot. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the onion softens.
Add 3 cups of water (or broth for extra flavor) to the pot, then bring to a simmer.
Stir in 8 ounces of pasta, ensuring it’s well-coated in the liquid. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley for extra flavor.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or diced vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a veggie version.
Cheesy: Stir in additional cheese such as shredded mozzarella or cheddar for an even cheesier dish.
Herbs: Add dried Italian seasoning, basil, or oregano for an herby twist that enhances the flavors.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover creamy beef pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.

2. Can I make this recipe with ground turkey or chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the dish. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious.

3. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce. Keep in mind that the sauce may be slightly less rich, but it will still be creamy.

4. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Sauté them with the onions and garlic for best results.

5. How do I make the pasta more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor, you can use broth (chicken or beef) instead of water. Adding seasonings like Italian seasoning, thyme, or basil can also bring an extra layer of flavor.

6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta and beef mixture, then store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat and stir in the cream.

7. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. After cooling, store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a bit of added liquid.

8. Can I make this dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free butter and cream alternatives, such as coconut milk or a plant-based cream.

9. What other cheeses can I add to this recipe?

In addition to Parmesan, you can use mozzarella, cheddar, or even cream cheese for an extra creamy and cheesy sauce.

10. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To spice it up, add some red pepper flakes, chili powder, or a few dashes of hot sauce when sautéing the garlic and onions. This will give the dish a nice heat.

Conclusion

One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is the perfect combination of rich, creamy comfort food and simplicity. This dish is quick to prepare, easy to clean up, and delivers on flavor with every bite. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a deliciously indulgent meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to satisfy!