One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting, flavor-packed meal that doesn’t bury you in dirty dishes, then this One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Rich, creamy, and loaded with savory ground beef and garlic butter goodness, it combines the heartiness of a classic pasta dish with the ease of one-pot cooking, making mealtime both simple and utterly delicious. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser that tastes like it simmered all day but comes together effortlessly on your stove.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and indulgence. Nothing fancy—just everyday staples that come together to create a dish bursting with richness and comfort.

• 1 lb ground beef: Adds hearty, meaty depth that makes this pasta satisfying and protein-packed.
• 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni): Shapes that hold onto the creamy sauce and juicy beef chunks perfectly.
• 2 tbsp butter: Creates that luscious garlic butter base, enriching the whole dish.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings intense aroma and savory punch to brighten the flavors.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and texture when softened in the pot.
• 2 cups beef broth: The flavorful cooking liquid that infuses the pasta and beef with umami.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Turns the sauce silky and decadent for the ultimate comfort-food feel.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers salty, nutty richness that completes the dish beautifully.
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds classic Mediterranean flair.
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a subtle kick that wakes up the palate if you like a little heat.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch to finish the dish.

How to Make One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until melted and fragrant. Add your ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, letting it brown evenly for about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is crucial because those caramelized bits create a deep savory foundation for the whole dish.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Once the beef is browned, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them together until the onion becomes translucent and soft, around 3 to 4 minutes. This step softens the onion’s bite and infuses the dish with that irresistible garlic aroma you can smell from across the kitchen.

Step 3: Add Broth, Pasta, and Seasonings

Pour in 2 cups of beef broth and bring it to a simmer, awakening all those browned bits stuck in the pot. Add the pasta, making sure it’s mostly submerged in liquid so it cooks evenly. Sprinkle in your Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them, plus salt and black pepper. Stir gently to combine everything.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Cover the pot and let the pasta cook right in the broth for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the broth’s rich flavors and release some starch, naturally thickening the sauce as it becomes perfectly al dente. This step is the heart of the One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe—no need to drain any water!

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Parmesan

Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. They melt together into a dreamy, smooth sauce that lovingly coats every noodle and beef morsel. Give it a taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. This finishing touch gives the dish its signature creamy, buttery character.

How to Serve One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. The bright green not only offers a lovely visual contrast to the creamy, tan pasta but also adds a subtle freshness that elevates the dish with a hint of herbal brightness.

Side Dishes

Keep things classic with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables to add texture and variety without overpowering the rich pasta. A crusty warm bread is also fantastic for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving it in individual ramekins topped with a little extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs, then broil just until golden and crispy. Or plate it family-style, garnished with whole sprigs of parsley and a wedge of lemon on the side to brighten up the richness with a squeeze before eating.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors meld even more overnight, making leftovers just as comforting—or even better—the next day.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooled pasta in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will maintain great flavor and texture for up to 2 months, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir often until warmed through, ensuring the pasta regains its creamy consistency without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne or rigatoni work great for holding the sauce, feel free to use any pasta shape you have on hand, such as fusilli, shells, or farfalle. Just keep the cooking time in mind and adjust accordingly.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep the flavors balanced and hearty.

Can I add vegetables to the One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe?

Definitely! Vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can be added in step 2 along with the onions and garlic, or stirred in towards the end to keep them crisp and vibrant.

How spicy is the recipe with the crushed red pepper flakes?

The crushed red pepper flakes add a mild to moderate heat that enhances the savory flavors without overwhelming the dish. You can reduce or omit them if you prefer a milder pasta.

What wine pairs well with this pasta dish?

A medium-bodied red wine like a Merlot or Chianti beautifully complements the rich beef and creamy sauce. For white wine lovers, a buttery Chardonnay is a lovely match with the garlic butter notes.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe is a shining example of comfort food made simple. It delivers rich, creamy, and satisfying flavors with minimal effort and cleanup, perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a cozy meal. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a delicious staple in your kitchen too!

One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe

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4.3 from 71 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A hearty and flavorful one-pot beef and garlic butter pasta recipe that combines ground beef, aromatic garlic, and a creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal, this dish uses simple ingredients cooked in one pot to deliver delicious comfort with minimal cleanup.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Beef and Aromatics

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp butter

Pasta and Sauce

• 12 oz pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion is softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Broth and Pasta: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the pasta, ensuring it is covered by the broth. Season with Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
4. Cook Pasta: Cover the pot and cook the pasta according to package instructions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Finish the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

• To prevent the pasta from sticking, stir occasionally while cooking.
• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef if preferred.
• If you like it spicier, increase the crushed red pepper flakes.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melting quality.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Pasta
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American