Name: Indulgent Easy Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta with Garlic Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground Beef (Can substitute with ground turkey); 2 tablespoons Butter (Unsalted); 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); 1/4 cup Fresh Chopped Parsley

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There’s nothing quite like the burst of flavor that comes from a home-cooked meal, especially after a hectic day. When my busy schedule leaves little time for complex cooking, I find solace in recipes like this Easy Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta with Garlic Butter. Picture this: a warm, inviting aroma of garlic butter filling your kitchen as tender pasta mingles with rich ground beef and a velvety sauce.

This dish not only embraces the comforting essence of Italian cuisine, but it’s also a lifesaver for those evenings when the thought of takeout just won’t do. With just one pot and a mere 30 minutes, you can whip up a creamy masterpiece that pleases the palate and warms the soul. And if you’re feeling adventurous, the recipe allows for plenty of creative twists—whether swapping beef for turkey or adding fresh veggies to elevate the dish.

Get ready to savor every bite as we dive into this delightful one-pot wonder!

Why Will You Love This Easy Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta?

Simplicity, this recipe is perfect for all skill levels, allowing you to create a delicious meal with minimal fuss and just one pot. Time-saving, ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Versatile, you can easily swap ground beef for turkey or plant-based alternatives, accommodating different dietary preferences. Flavorful, the rich garlic butter and creamy sauce create a mouthwatering experience reminiscent of Italian comfort food. Crowd-pleaser, this dish is guaranteed to impress family and friends alike—pair it with a fresh garden salad or some Buttery Crescent Rolls for a complete meal!

Easy Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create this comforting dish!

For the Pasta Dish

Ground Beef – The primary protein offering richness and depth; consider substituting with ground turkey for a lighter option.
Butter – Adds velvety richness; unsalted variety helps manage salt levels in the sauce.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Elevates the dish’s flavor with its aromatic essence; fresh garlic is always best.
Onion (1 medium, finely chopped) – Infuses sweetness and depth into the dish; yellow or white onions are perfect choices.
Dried Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – Delivers a balanced herb mix that screams Italian comfort cuisine.
Salt (1/2 tsp) and Black Pepper (1/4 tsp) – Essential for enhancing all the vibrant flavors; adjust based on your taste preference.
Beef Broth (1/2 cup) – Imparts moisture and creates the sauce’s consistency; feel free to use homemade or store-bought.
Heavy Cream (1 cup) – The star for achieving that creamy texture; indispensable for the dish’s richness.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup) – Adds a nutty flavor while helping to thicken the sauce.
Pasta (8 ounces, penne or spaghetti) – Cooks right in the sauce to absorb maximum flavor—penne is especially good for this!
Fresh Chopped Parsley – A touch of color and freshness that garnishes your dish beautifully.

Feel free to explore variations and enjoy a delightful evening meal with this Easy Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta!

How to Make Easy Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta

Brown the Beef: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the ground beef. Cook until browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Sauté Aromatics: Add minced garlic and the finely chopped onion to the pot. Sauté until fragrant and the onions become translucent, about 2 minutes. This step builds a delicious flavor base.
Add Seasonings: Stir in the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Ensure the beef and aromatics are well-coated with the spices for a tasty blend.
Make the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly for about 5 minutes, which helps concentrate those lovely flavors.
Create the Creaminess: Mix in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce thickens, which should take around 3-4 minutes. You’ll notice a rich, velvety texture developing.
Cook Pasta: Stir in the uncooked pasta, cover the pot, and cook according to the package instructions (8-10 minutes), stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente and well-combined with the creamy sauce.
Serve: Remove the pot from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy the delightful aroma your dish gives off!

Optional: For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Easy Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta Variations

Feel free to add your personal touch and transform this dish into a culinary adventure that excites your senses.

Ground Turkey: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The mild taste complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
Vegan Delight: For a plant-based meal, use lentils or chopped mushrooms in place of meat. This twist is loaded with nutrients and brings a hearty texture to the mix.
Creamy Spinach: Add fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for a pop of vibrant green and nutritional boost. It wilts beautifully and enhances the dish’s creaminess.
Cheesy Variation: For extra creaminess, add more Parmesan cheese or a dollop of cream cheese at the end. This creates an irresistibly rich texture that cheese lovers will adore.
Spicy Kick: If you love heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions. It adds a zesty layer that perfectly contrasts the dish’s creaminess.
Herbed Bliss: Boost the flavor by incorporating fresh herbs like basil or thyme. Just before serving, mix in the herbs for a fresh aroma that uplifts every bite.
Vegetable Medley: Toss in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots when the beef is browning. This colorful blend not only makes the dish healthier but adds interesting textures and flavors.
Pasta Variety: Experiment with different pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle. Each type changes the eating experience—twirls and bows create fun bites!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta with Garlic Butter are perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight! You can prepare the beef and garlic butter sauce and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just brown the beef and sauté the garlic and onions as usual, then let the mixture cool before sealing it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat the sauce in a pot, stir in the uncooked pasta, and follow the cooking instructions as if starting fresh. Don’t forget to add a splash of cream to maintain that luscious texture! This prep-ahead tip ensures you can savor the rich flavors of homemade pasta without the hassle of last-minute cooking.

Expert Tips for Easy Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta

Stir Often: To prevent sticking, make sure to stir frequently after adding pasta to keep everything well combined.
Adjust Creaminess: Feel free to modify the amount of heavy cream based on your desired sauce consistency for this easy creamy one-pot beef pasta.
Mix in Veggies: Enhance nutrition and flavor by incorporating vegetables like spinach or bell peppers—perfect for balancing the richness!
Watch the Broth: Be cautious with the amount of beef broth; too much can make the dish soupy instead of creamy.
Taste Test: Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving—each ingredient contributes to the overall flavor, making your dish truly shine!

How to Store and Freeze Easy Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce maintains its flavor well even after refrigeration, but ensure it’s covered tightly to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. To revive the creaminess, add a splash of cream or broth as needed.

Tip: This Easy Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but storing and freezing it means you can savor these comforting flavors any time!

What to Serve with Easy Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta with Garlic Butter?

Enhance your comforting pasta meal with delightful accompaniments that will make dinner even more memorable!

Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.
Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every bit of the luscious sauce, making every bite a treat.
Roasted Vegetables: Adding seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers brings color and vibrancy to your meal while keeping it healthy.
Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet elegant, steamed broccoli provides a nutritious touch and a nice textural contrast to the dish.
Cheesy Breadsticks: For a fun, indulgent side, cheesy breadsticks are a hit with both kids and adults alike, making them a perfect pairing.
Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Chianti, complements the dish perfectly, enhancing its rich flavors.
Lemon Sorbet: Finish the meal with a light, refreshing lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate after the hearty pasta.

These pairings are sure to create a well-rounded dining experience that everyone will love!

Easy Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta with Garlic Butter Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ground beef?
Absolutely! Look for ground beef that is 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for optimal flavor and juiciness. Fresh ground beef should have a bright red color with no dark spots or an off smell. If you’re mindful of your health, opting for leaner beef, like a 93/7 ratio, is a great option too, albeit with a slightly different mouthfeel.

How should I store leftovers of this Easy Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta?
To keep the flavors intact, place your leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the container is sealed well to prevent the pasta from drying out. When you’re ready to dive back into this comforting dish, just reheat it gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore that creamy texture.

Can I freeze the Easy Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta? How?
Definitely! This meal freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply transfer it to the fridge the night before to thaw. To reheat, cook it over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently, and don’t forget that little splash of cream or broth to bring back its velvety richness!

What if my pasta turns out mushy?
That’s a common concern! If you find your pasta mushy, it could be due to overcooking or too much liquid in the pot. To help avoid this, make sure to follow the package cooking time precisely and keep an eye on the texture of your pasta. If you’re unsure, you can always taste-test a minute or two before the recommended time is up. If you do end up with mushy pasta, consider mixing in some fresh vegetables or using it as a base for a casserole for an entirely new dish!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Of course! If you or someone you’re serving has dietary restrictions, this recipe is quite flexible. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or even plant-based alternatives like lentils or veggie crumbles for a delicious vegetarian option. Plus, consider that heavy cream can be swapped with milk or a non-dairy cream if lactose intolerance is an issue. Always check that your substitutions meet any allergies or dietary guidelines you need to follow. The more the merrier in terms of flavors and choices!