One-Pot Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Pasta

This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Pasta is the perfect combination of savory ground beef, a rich garlic butter sauce, and creamy cheese—all cooked in one skillet for a deliciously easy weeknight meal. With minimal prep and just one pan to clean, this dish is ideal for busy nights when you want something comforting, flavorful, and satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy pasta is packed with flavor from the garlic butter sauce, complemented by savory ground beef and creamy cheeses. It’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze, and the combination of beef and pasta in a rich, cheesy sauce will keep everyone at the table coming back for more. The Italian seasoning and paprika bring depth, while the mozzarella and Parmesan melt into a velvety sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. Simple, creamy, and utterly delicious, it’s the ultimate comfort food!

Ingredients

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

• 1 lb ground beef (85/15 for flavor with less grease)

• 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini work well)

• 4 cups beef broth

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.

2. Build the Flavor Base: Add butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), paprika, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir and sauté for 1–2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant and the spices bloom.

3. Cook the Pasta: Pour in beef broth and stir to deglaze the pan. Add uncooked pasta, stir to combine, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.

4. Make it Creamy and Cheesy: Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce. Let rest off-heat for 3–5 minutes to thicken the sauce.

5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the pasta and serve hot with warm bread or a side salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Leftover creamy beef pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet or microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce, and heat until warm.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the pasta for any type you like! Penne, rotini, or even spaghetti work well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the type of pasta used.

Can I make this recipe with ground turkey or chicken?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. The flavor will be slightly lighter, but still delicious.

How can I make this dish spicier?

For extra spice, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add some chili powder. You could also top the finished dish with a dash of hot sauce.

Can I make this dish without cheese?

Yes, you can omit the cheese for a lighter version, though the dish will be less creamy. You can also substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative if needed.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, this creamy pasta freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat on the stove with a little added beef broth to bring back the creaminess.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, zucchini, or peas would make a great addition. Simply sauté them with the garlic and spices before adding the broth and pasta.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients to make a larger batch. Just ensure that your skillet or Dutch oven is large enough to accommodate the increased volume and adjust the cooking time as needed.

How can I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, you can let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, or you can stir in a little more cheese or a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water) to thicken the sauce to your liking.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Pasta is a delicious, comforting dish that combines savory ground beef, pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s an easy-to-make weeknight meal that’s full of flavor and perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty and satisfying. With just one pan and a short prep time, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite that everyone will love!