Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta with Garlic Butter

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There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of creamy pasta that comes together in one pot. This Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta with Garlic Butter is everything you need on a busy weeknight—rich, hearty, and packed with flavor. Imagine tender noodles coated in a velvety sauce infused with garlic butter and savory ground beef. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with cozy aromas and your belly with contentment.

The best part? Minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction. This dish doesn’t just taste amazing—it’s practical too. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just craving something indulgent and easy, this recipe delivers comfort and convenience in every bite.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

While traditional fettuccine or linguine work beautifully for their ability to hold onto the creamy sauce, you can easily substitute with rotini, penne, or even egg noodles depending on what you have on hand. The key is to choose a pasta shape that allows the sauce to cling well, so every bite is full of flavor.

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Ingredients for the Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta with Garlic Butter

Ground Beef
Provides the meaty heart of the dish. Choose a leaner variety for less grease, or go full-flavor with 80/20.

Fettuccine or Linguine Pasta
These long noodles are perfect for soaking up the garlic-buttery cream sauce.

Garlic
Fresh minced garlic deepens the flavor and complements the butter for that signature aroma.

Butter
Unsalted butter is best to control seasoning, and it forms the rich, silky base of the sauce.

Heavy Cream
For an ultra-creamy texture, heavy cream adds both body and luxuriousness to the dish.

Beef Broth
Infuses extra savory flavor and helps cook the pasta in one pot while keeping things moist.

Parmesan Cheese
Adds salty, nutty depth to the creamy sauce and brings everything together.

Salt & Black Pepper
Season to taste and bring out the richness of all the ingredients.

Fresh Parsley (optional)
A sprinkle of chopped parsley brightens the dish with color and a hint of freshness.

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How To Make the Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta with Garlic Butter

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic in Butter

Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the butter and minced garlic to the pan. Stir for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta

Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the uncooked pasta, making sure it’s submerged. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.

Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Seasoning

Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed into a creamy consistency, reduce the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Add salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot straight from the pot. Creamy, rich, and full of flavor in every bite.

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Serving and Storing Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta with Garlic Butter

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh from the stove, with the sauce at its creamiest. Serve it family-style in the skillet or transfer to a large serving dish for a dinner party-ready presentation. Pair it with crusty bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or broth and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner. Whole milk is the best substitute, and you might want to add a bit of cream cheese for richness.

What kind of ground beef should I use?

An 85/15 blend strikes a good balance between flavor and fat. Drain excess grease to avoid a greasy sauce.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not ideal. Cream-based sauces tend to separate when frozen and thawed. It’s best to enjoy this fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.

What vegetables can I add?

Spinach, mushrooms, or peas work great. Add them in Step 3 with the liquids for even cooking.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for mushrooms or plant-based ground and use vegetable broth instead.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, but if you want heat, add red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If this Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta with Garlic Butter hit the spot, you’ll love exploring these other comforting pasta dishes too:

• Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef for a richer twist with a baked feel.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce when you’re craving hearty and cheesy.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for veggie-loaded comfort.
• One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for another easy go-to on busy nights.
• Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo when you’re ready to turn up the spice.

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Tried this creamy one-pot pasta? Let me know how it turned out! Did you use fettuccine or switch it up with rotini? Add some mushrooms or make it spicy? I’d love to hear your twist in the comments. Let’s keep sharing ways to make comfort food even better!

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