One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is the perfect comfort food that comes together in a breeze! With savory ground beef, rich garlic butter sauce, and creamy cheese, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this simple yet indulgent recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is everything you crave in a hearty, satisfying meal. The combination of savory beef, rich garlic butter, and the creamy goodness of melted cheese takes pasta to the next level. The best part? It all cooks in one pot, saving you time on cleanup. Plus, the dish is incredibly versatile, making it easy to adjust to your taste preferences. It’s a cozy and filling meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 3 tbsp butter

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 cups beef broth

• 2 cups milk

• 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or linguine)

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp paprika

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

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

Directions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot, cook ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Drain excess grease if needed.

2. Add Butter & Garlic: Add butter and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Pour Liquids & Season: Stir in beef broth, milk, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well.

4. Add Pasta: Break pasta in half if needed and add to the pot. Stir to make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.

5. Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has reduced to a creamy sauce.

6. Add Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.

7. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings

• Preparation time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Different Proteins: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor.

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian option.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.

• Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or a blend of Italian cheeses for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the pasta on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to bring the creamy sauce back to life. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the beef and sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Simply add the pasta when you’re ready to cook.

3. What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, fontina, or a bit of crumbled blue cheese for a unique twist.

4. Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

Yes, you can add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or a touch of hot sauce to give the dish some heat.

5. How do I keep the pasta from getting too dry?

To prevent dryness, be sure to stir the pasta often and keep the heat low. Adding extra milk or broth during cooking will keep the pasta moist and creamy.

6. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container. Reheat thoroughly when ready to serve.

7. Can I use heavy cream instead of milk?

Yes, heavy cream will make the dish even creamier and richer. Just keep in mind it may increase the overall calorie count.

8. How do I get the perfect creamy texture?

Make sure to stir the pasta often as it simmers, and add the cheese once the pasta has absorbed most of the liquid. This ensures the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

9. Can I substitute the ground beef with something else?

You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before proceeding with the recipe.

10. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta, and make sure all other ingredients (like the broth and seasonings) are gluten-free.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a perfect go-to recipe for busy nights when you crave something comforting and delicious. With minimal prep, just one pot, and mouthwatering results, it’s sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Whether you make it with beef or try one of the many variations, you’ll love the creamy texture and rich flavor that this dish delivers. Enjoy!