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One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

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This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta combines tender ground beef, rich garlic butter, and a silky cream sauce in a single pan for the ultimate comfort food. It’s easy, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: One-Pot
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 12 oz short pasta (penne, rotini, or similar)
  • 3 cups beef broth (or water with bouillon)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot or deep skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  3. Stir in chopped onion and cook until softened.
  4. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  5. Pour in the uncooked pasta and beef broth. Stir to combine and ensure pasta is mostly submerged.
  6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
  7. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  8. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
  9. Remove from heat, let sit for a few minutes to thicken further, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Swap ground beef with Italian sausage for a different flavor.
  • Add mushrooms or spinach for extra depth and nutrition.
  • A splash of white wine adds elegance to the sauce.
  • Top with mozzarella and broil briefly for a cheesy baked finish.
  • Use half-and-half or milk with butter if heavy cream isn’t available.

Nutrition