Name: One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup beef broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 8 ounces pasta (penne or spaghetti works well); Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Let’s be real—after a long day, the last thing anyone wants to do is clean up a sink full of dishes. That’s where the magic of one-pot meals comes in, and this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is the kind of dish that checks all the boxes: creamy, savory, rich, and incredibly satisfying. If you’re all about maximum flavor with minimum fuss, then this recipe is about to be your new best friend.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Wonder

Why should you make this pasta recipe tonight?
Well, here’s the deal:

One pot = fewer dishes. You’re not juggling multiple pans or strainers.
It’s fast. Think 30–40 minutes, start to finish.
It’s creamy, garlicky, beefy heaven. What more could you want?
It feeds a crowd. Perfect for hungry kids, spouses, roommates, or anyone needing a bowl of comfort.

How to Make One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

Ready to whip up a delicious dinner with minimal cleanup? Grab your skillet and give this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta a try tonight—you won’t regret it

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz pasta (such as penne or spaghetti)
2 cups beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper.

Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until it’s fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Stir in the Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, ensuring the pasta is just covered. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender (about 10-12 minutes).

Add the Cream and Butter: Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and butter. Continue stirring until the butter is melted and the sauce is well combined.

Sprinkle in the Parmesan: Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s melted into the sauce, making it creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the creamy beef and garlic butter pasta into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.

Expert Tips for Perfect One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

easy One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe

Use freshly minced garlic – Fresh garlic brings out a richer, more aromatic flavor than jarred varieties.
Don’t skip the sear on the beef – Browning adds depth and savory notes that elevate the whole dish.
Stir pasta occasionally – This prevents it from sticking together and ensures even cooking in the broth.
Use full-fat cream – It gives the sauce a velvety texture that holds up beautifully with the Parmesan.
Grate your own Parmesan – Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly; freshly grated adds better flavor and texture.
Let it rest for a few minutes – After cooking, give the pasta a minute or two to soak in the sauce for maximum creaminess.
Add veggies if desired – Toss in some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a nutritious twist without complicating the recipe.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storing:
Let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Reheating:
Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and stir gently until heated through. Avoid overheating to keep the sauce from separating.

Can You Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can! To make it ahead, cook the pasta and beef mixture but hold off on adding the cream and cheese until you’re ready to serve. Store the base in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop, then stir in the cream and Parmesan for that fresh, creamy finish.

One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe — SAVE THIS PIN

Creative Variations

Veggie Lover’s Version: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a burst of color and extra nutrients. Sauté them with the garlic for added flavor.
Spicy Twist: Stir in red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a bit of heat that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Cheese Lovers Delight: Swap in different cheeses like mozzarella, Gouda, or Asiago to change up the flavor profile. A mix of cheeses adds depth and richness.
Italian-Inspired: Toss in a pinch of Italian seasoning or fresh basil to give the dish a Mediterranean flair. You can also add some sun-dried tomatoes for extra tang.

FAQs about One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can! Feel free to swap in any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

Can I make this dish without beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein like lentils or veggie crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian version.

How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can add more grated Parmesan cheese or simmer the dish for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid. If it’s still too thin, mix in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Just let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 2–3 months. Reheat thoroughly when ready to enjoy.

What can I serve with this pasta?
This pasta is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines simplicity with rich, delicious flavors. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something easy, yet satisfying, and cleanup is a breeze with just one pot. Whether you follow the classic recipe or get creative with variations, it’s a meal your whole family will love. So next time you’re craving a creamy, hearty pasta dish, give this one a try—you won’t be disappointed!

One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

Author: Eliza Nooman
Total Time: 30 mins

Print Recipe

Description

This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a rich and savory dish made with ground beef, garlic, and a creamy butter sauce. It’s a quick, comforting meal that requires minimal cleanup, perfect for busy nights.

Instructions

- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the garlic and onion, and cook for another 2 minutes, until fragrant and softened.
Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the uncooked pasta to the pot, ensuring it’s covered by the sauce. Add a little extra water or broth if needed. Cover the pot and cook the pasta according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes), stirring occasionally.
Once the pasta is tender and the sauce is creamy, remove the pot from the heat.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.