One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a rich, savory, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Made with tender ground beef, aromatic garlic butter, and a creamy sauce that clings to every bite of pasta, this dish is as comforting as it is easy to make. Everything comes together in one pot, which means less cleanup and more flavor in every spoonful.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love how this dish delivers big, comforting flavors with minimal effort. The garlic butter gives it a deep, savory richness, while the ground beef adds heartiness that makes it a complete meal. The creamy sauce brings everything together, and since it all cooks in one pot, cleanup is a breeze. Whether I’m feeding the family or just want a cozy dinner for myself, this recipe always comes through.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Ground beef
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Pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
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Butter
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Garlic, minced
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Onion, chopped
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Beef broth
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Heavy cream
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Parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper
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Italian seasoning
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Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Directions
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In a large pot or deep skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion, and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
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Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
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Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer.
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Stir in the uncooked pasta. Cover and cook for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed.
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Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until everything is creamy and well combined.
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Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
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Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
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Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4–6
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
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Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers during cooking.
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Cheesy Twist: Add mozzarella or cream cheese for extra richness.
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Swap the Meat: I sometimes use ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of beef.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the broth and seasonings are gluten-free.
Storage/Reheating
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream, or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked pasta?
It’s best to cook the pasta in the pot with the sauce so it absorbs the flavors and helps thicken the dish.
What pasta shape works best?
I like using short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells—they hold the sauce well and cook evenly in one pot.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. For a richer result, stick with heavy cream or half-and-half.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes well. I let it cool completely, then portion and freeze. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking or overcooking?
Stir occasionally while the pasta simmers, and don’t overcook—once it’s tender, move on to the next step.
Conclusion
One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is the kind of dinner I keep in rotation because it’s fast, flavorful, and always satisfying. It’s loaded with creamy, garlicky goodness and hearty beef, all wrapped up in tender pasta. Whether I’m cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this is a one-pot wonder that never fails. Give it a try and taste the magic of minimal dishes and maximum comfort.
