If you’re craving a hearty, soul-warming dinner that’s quick to make and easy to clean up after, One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is about to become your new go-to. This comfort food classic is full of rich flavors—juicy ground beef, velvety garlic butter, and perfectly cooked pasta all mingled in a luscious, Parmesan-laced sauce. Best of all, it comes together in just one pot, which means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy your meal.
Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or whipping up something cozy for a weekend indulgence, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s savory, creamy, garlicky, and packed with protein. Ready to fall in love with this deliciously simple dinner idea?
Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
There are plenty of reasons to adore this recipe, but here are a few highlights that make it stand out:
1. One Pot = Less Mess
Let’s be honest—nobody likes doing dishes. The beauty of this recipe is that it all comes together in a single pot. Cook the beef, add the pasta, simmer everything in broth, and finish it with butter and cheese. That’s it!
2. Incredible Flavor
Ground beef and garlic are a match made in heaven. Add Italian seasoning, butter, and Parmesan, and you’ve got layers of savory, umami-rich flavor in every bite. The broth infuses the pasta with even more depth, so each mouthful is satisfying.
3. Family-Friendly
Kids and adults alike will love this pasta. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavors that appeal to all ages. Plus, it’s easy to sneak in extra veggies if you like.
4. Customizable
While this version sticks to the basics, the recipe is highly adaptable. Swap the pasta type, try different cheeses, or add veggies and herbs. It’s a great base to play with.
5. Quick and Easy
With minimal prep and about 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s ideal for nights when you need something filling but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
What You’ll Need
Before you dive into the cooking, make sure you’ve got all your ingredients on hand. Here’s what goes into this one-pot wonder:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef – Choose lean or regular, depending on your preference for fat content.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is essential for that rich, garlicky base.
- ½ cup beef broth – Adds depth and flavor while helping the pasta cook evenly.
- 2 tablespoons butter – Unsalted is ideal so you can control the seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning – A perfect blend of herbs for that Italian flair.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds nuttiness and creaminess to the sauce.
- 8 ounces pasta – Penne or spaghetti work beautifully.
Optional Add-ins: A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, fresh parsley for garnish, or a splash of cream if you want it extra rich.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to make this luscious, garlicky pasta step-by-step.
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, add your ground beef over medium-high heat. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Add the Garlic and Seasoning
Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the dried Italian seasoning and mix well to coat the beef evenly.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth
Add ½ cup beef broth to the pot and stir, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan. The broth not only helps deglaze the pan but also becomes the base of the sauce.
Step 4: Add the Pasta
Pour in your uncooked pasta (penne or broken spaghetti both work well). Add just enough water to barely cover the pasta—about 2 cups is typically sufficient, but it may vary slightly. Bring to a boil.
Step 5: Simmer and Stir
Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the pasta cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t stick. Most of the liquid should be absorbed by the end of cooking. If the pasta is still too firm, add a splash more water and continue cooking.
Step 6: Stir in the Butter and Cheese
Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stir in the butter and grated Parmesan. Mix until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed with salt and black pepper.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired. Pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
To ensure your One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta turns out perfect every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
1. Use Fresh Garlic
Don’t substitute garlic powder—fresh garlic brings much more flavor and richness.
2. Choose the Right Pasta
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rotini hold sauce well, but spaghetti works too. Break long noodles in half if using a smaller pot.
3. Adjust Liquid as Needed
The amount of water needed can vary depending on the type of pasta and pot you use. Keep an eye on it and add a bit more if necessary during cooking.
4. Low and Slow Finish
After the pasta is cooked, simmer on low heat when stirring in the butter and cheese. This keeps the sauce creamy and helps prevent burning.
5. Customize to Taste
Feel free to add cream, swap the cheese, or toss in veggies to suit your family’s preferences.
Variations to Try
Looking to shake things up a bit? Here are some creative twists on this easy recipe:
1. Spicy Version
Add a pinch (or more!) of red pepper flakes with the garlic. Or use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
2. Creamy Mushroom Beef Pasta
Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy touch and stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.
3. Spinach and Beef Pasta
Add fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking—it wilts down beautifully and adds a pop of color and nutrition.
4. Cheesy Upgrade
Mix in some shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese for an even gooier finish.
5. Ground Turkey or Chicken Substitute
Want a lighter version? Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also opt for plant-based meat substitutes for a vegetarian-friendly twist.
Storing and Reheating
This pasta reheats wonderfully and can be made in advance for meal prep. Here’s how to store it properly:
Refrigerating:
Allow the pasta to cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
You can freeze this pasta, though the texture of the pasta may soften a bit upon reheating. Let it cool, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of broth, milk, or water to loosen up the sauce as needed. Stir frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Penne, rotini, fusilli, rigatoni, or even shells work great. Just keep in mind that cooking time and water amount may vary slightly.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not as written, but you can add red pepper flakes or spicy sausage if you like a little heat.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach are all great additions. Just make sure to add them at the right stage—veggies like spinach can go in at the end, while heartier veggies may need to cook with the garlic.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can substitute plant-based butter and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version, but keep in mind that the creaminess will be slightly different.
How can I make it even creamier?
Stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end along with the butter for an ultra-rich finish.
The Final Word
One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is more than just a quick meal—it’s comfort in a bowl. With savory ground beef, golden garlic, and a buttery, cheesy sauce that clings to every bite of pasta, it’s the kind of dinner that satisfies deeply. Best of all, it’s made with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, and it comes together with minimal effort and cleanup.
Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves cozy comfort food, this pasta is the perfect recipe to keep in your rotation. It’s budget-friendly, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser.
So next time you’re wondering what to cook for dinner, ditch the takeout menu and give this one-pot wonder a try. One bite and you’ll see why it’s earned a permanent place on the comfort food hall of fame.