A Comforting Pasta Dish Packed with Flavor

One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is one of those weeknight meals that feels like comfort in a bowl. Originating from Italian-American cuisine, this creamy pasta blends the rich flavors of garlic butter, Parmesan, and seasoned ground beef into one irresistible dish. What makes it stand out is the simplicity — everything cooks in one pot, letting the pasta soak up every ounce of flavor from the beef and broth. The result is a creamy, cheesy meal that feels gourmet but takes just 30 minutes to make. Perfect for busy families or cozy nights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why Garlic Butter and Beef Work So Well Together

Garlic butter adds richness and depth, creating a silky base that elevates the savory notes of the ground beef. The fat from the butter helps to carry the garlic flavor throughout the dish, giving it that irresistible aroma as soon as it hits the pan. Ground beef, meanwhile, brings protein and texture, perfectly balancing the creaminess of the sauce. Combined with Parmesan and mozzarella, the flavors come together into a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s both satisfying and deeply comforting. This flavor harmony is what makes it a top-rated one-pot meal for pasta lovers.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

You don’t need fancy ingredients to create something delicious just a few pantry staples. Beef broth provides the liquid base and infuses the pasta as it cooks, while heavy cream and cheese create a velvety sauce that clings to every piece. The Italian seasoning and paprika add warmth and depth, and the optional red pepper flakes bring a touch of heat for those who love a little kick. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just making dinner for two, this recipe delivers restaurant-level flavor with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini work well)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Add Flavor

Stir in butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and the butter is fully melted.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Pour in the beef broth and uncooked pasta. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes rich and creamy. Remove from heat and let sit for 3–5 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy garlic butter beef pasta hot and fresh!

Timing & Nutrition

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 640 kcal per serving

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes! While penne and rotini work great for holding the sauce, you can use fusilli, shells, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time slightly — thinner pasta will cook faster, while thicker ones may need a few extra minutes.

Q2: How can I make this recipe lighter?

To make it lighter, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk, and reduce the cheese slightly. You can also use lean ground beef or ground turkey for less fat but the same delicious flavor.

Q3: Can I store and reheat this dish?

Absolutely. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy texture. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can dry out the sauce.

Q4: What sides go well with creamy beef pasta?

A fresh green salad with vinaigrette, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables makes perfect companions. These sides balance the richness of the pasta and add texture to the meal.