This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is everything you want on a busy night: hearty, garlicky, creamy, and filling—all made in just one skillet. The savory beef, rich butter, and bold garlic come together with Italian herbs, pasta, and a silky sauce that coats every bite.
It’s quick enough for weeknights, satisfying enough for Sunday dinner, and best of all? You’ll only have one pot to wash.
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a one-pot dinner that delivers big flavor without a sink full of dishes. I love how the butter and garlic melt into the beef and onions, forming a rich base for the sauce. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent but is made from everyday ingredients—and one that gets requests for seconds every time.
Bonus: It reheats beautifully and works great for meal prep, too.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup beef broth
- 8 oz uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work best)
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley or extra Parmesan
Swaps and Notes
- Meat: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Cream: Substitute with half-and-half or evaporated milk if preferred.
- Pasta: Short cuts like penne, fusilli, or bowties cook evenly in the sauce.
- Add-ins: Try peas, mushrooms, or spinach to sneak in some veggies.
Step-by-Step Instructions
🔹 Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium-high heat.
Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
🔹 Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add minced garlic and chopped onion to the pan. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
🔹 Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in beef broth, water, and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
🔹 Step 4: Add Pasta and Simmer
Stir in uncooked pasta. Reduce heat to medium and cook uncovered for 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
🔹 Step 5: Finish with Cheese
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan before serving.
Tips for Success
- Stir regularly: This keeps the pasta from sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Adjust consistency: Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
- Don’t skip the Parmesan: It gives the dish that salty, nutty finish that ties it all together.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Round out your dinner with these perfect pairings:
- Garlic bread or roasted vegetables
- A side salad with vinaigrette
- Blueberry Lemonade – sweet and tart to cut through the richness
For a cozy, complete spread, add:
- Easy Turkey Wings – perfect for a comfort food duo
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas – ideal if you’re feeding a group
- Dorito Casserole – for a second day remix night
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs – for a rich dessert to close it out
Storage and Leftovers
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat with extra cream to restore texture.
More Recipes You’ll Love
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Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is rich, savory, and built for busy nights when you want maximum flavor with minimum fuss. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, creamy enough to satisfy every craving, and guaranteed to hit your weekly dinner rotation.
Tried it? Tag @chefmaniac and show off your skillet creations—we love seeing your one-pot wins! 🧄🥩🍝
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