There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of pasta, especially when it’s loaded with savory beef and creamy cheese. This Garlic Butter Beef and Macaroni in Creamy Cheddar Parmesan Sauce is one of those recipes that brings back fond memories of cozy family dinners and laughter around the table. Trust me, once you whip this up, it will become a go-to dish in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Beef and Macaroni in Creamy Cheddar Parmesan Sauce
- Fast
- Easy
- Giftable
- Crowd-pleasing
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni: The perfect shape to hold all that cheesy goodness.
- 1 lb ground beef: A hearty protein that makes this dish filling.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant kick that you will love.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: For that rich, buttery flavor.
- 1 cup beef broth: Enhances the savory depth of the dish.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that luscious, creamy sauce.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Because more cheese is always the answer.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): A fresh touch to finish off the dish.
How to Make Garlic Butter Beef and Macaroni in Creamy Cheddar Parmesan Sauce
- Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. This step is super simple and gives you the perfect pasta base!
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Let me tell you, the smell of garlic sautéing is pure magic!
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, which helps all those flavors meld together.
- Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and the sauce is smooth. You’ll want to keep stirring until it’s perfectly creamy!
- Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet, mixing until every piece is well coated with that glorious sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired for a pop of color. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Substitutions & Additions
If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, here are a few ideas:
- Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add veggies like spinach or bell peppers to sneak in some greens.
- For an extra kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- Try using different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip the step of sautéing the garlic; it adds depth to the flavor.
- Be careful not to overcook the beef; it should be browned but still tender.
- If you want to prep ahead, you can cook the macaroni and beef mixture earlier in the day, then combine and heat just before serving.
How to Store Garlic Butter Beef and Macaroni in Creamy Cheddar Parmesan Sauce
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. This dish also freezes well; just make sure to store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
FAQs
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! Just prepare everything and store it separately until you’re ready to enjoy.
- What can I serve with this dish? A simple side salad or some garlic bread would complement it perfectly.
This Garlic Butter Beef and Macaroni in Creamy Cheddar Parmesan Sauce is sure to become a family favorite, just like it is in my home. For more delicious recipes, check out Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes or Breakfast Burrito for treats you will love!
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to follow our Pinterest account for more delightful inspiration!

Garlic Butter Beef and Macaroni in Creamy Cheddar Parmesan Sauce
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Large pot
- Spatula
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Beef and Macaroni
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Step 3: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 4: Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Step 5: Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Step 6: Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet, mixing until every piece is well coated with the sauce.
- Step 7: Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
