Indulge in the luxurious blend of flavors found in this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta. This dish transcends ordinary pasta by infusing tender beef with a rich, buttery sauce that coats every strand, creating a comforting yet sophisticated dining experience. Its one-pot nature not only simplifies the cooking process but also allows the beef to infuse its essence into the pasta, resulting in a dish that’s both flavorful and elegantly presented.
Why Make This Recipe
- Effortless Yet Elegant: Minimal effort yields a refined dish perfect for any occasion.
- Minimal Ingredients: With only a handful of key components, this recipe highlights each ingredient’s natural flavor.
- Impressive Flavor: The combination of garlic, beef, and creamy sauce creates a rich, savory delight, elevating your ordinary weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Base
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta (dried or fresh)
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably grass-fed)
Sauce
- 4 tablespoons garlic butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth (low sodium)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- Fresh parsley (finely chopped, for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef. Sauté until it turns a rich brown, about 5–7 minutes. Break it apart as it cooks for even texture.
- Add the Garlic Butter: Stir in the garlic butter and let it melt into the meat, releasing its aromatic fragrance.
- Incorporate Liquids: Gradually add the heavy cream and beef broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the fettuccine to the pot, ensuring it’s fully submerged. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened.
- Season and Serve: Adjust with salt and pepper to taste. The sauce should be rich, creamy, and smooth.
Tip: Use a wooden spoon to deglaze the pot, scraping any flavorful bits from the bottom for extra depth of flavor.
How to Serve
For a restaurant-style presentation, twirl the pasta into a nest using tongs and place it at the center of a warm plate. Let the creamy sauce drizzle naturally over the pasta. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a generous dusting of Parmesan cheese for an elegant touch.
How to Store
Allow leftovers to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Warm gently over low heat to prevent curdling or separating.
Tips for the Best One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Past
- Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality beef and real garlic butter make all the difference.
- Infuse Herbs: Add a sprig of thyme or rosemary during simmering for extra aroma.
- Experiment with Pasta Shapes: Tagliatelle or pappardelle work beautifully too.
- Garnish with Style: Edible flowers or microgreens elevate the visual appeal.
- Lighter Option: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half to reduce richness while keeping it creamy.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef for an extra kick.
- Veggie Boost: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted mushrooms for more texture and nutrition.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in shredded mozzarella or cream cheese for a thicker, indulgent sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! This recipe works with spaghetti, linguine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half for a lighter option or coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter or stir in a bit of chili oil before serving.
Conclusion
This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is proof that comfort and sophistication can share the same plate. With its luxurious texture, bold flavors, and minimal cleanup, it’s the perfect dinner for busy nights or special occasions. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself craving it again and again.
Print
One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a rich, comforting dinner made in just one pot. Featuring tender ground beef, fragrant garlic butter, and a luscious cream sauce, it’s the perfect weeknight meal that’s easy, cozy, and delicious.
Ingredients
8 oz fettuccine pasta (dried or fresh)
1 lb ground beef (preferably grass-fed)
4 tablespoons garlic butter (room temperature)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup beef broth (low sodium)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley (finely chopped, for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
1. In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef. Sauté until browned, about 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks.
2. Stir in the garlic butter and let it melt into the beef, releasing its fragrance.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add fettuccine pasta to the pot. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Once the pasta is al dente and the sauce thickens, season with salt and black pepper.
6. Use a wooden spoon to deglaze the pot if needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
Try adding spinach or roasted mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture.
Use a splash of beef broth or cream when reheating to maintain creaminess.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 630mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 115mg