Some nights call for pasta that feels indulgent but still comes together fast. This beef and garlic butter pasta is exactly that kind of dinner. Rich, savory, and deeply comforting, it is the meal I make when I want something cozy without a long prep list or extra dishes.
This beef and garlic butter pasta recipe is a one-pot wonder made with ground beef, plenty of garlic, butter, and pasta cooked right in the sauce. It is ready in about 25 minutes and always hits the spot. If you love creamy, flavorful dinners that feel effortless, this one is for you. Let's get cooking.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- One-pot dinner with minimal cleanup
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Rich garlic butter flavor with savory beef
- Easy to customize with cream, spice, or veggies
- Family-friendly and perfect for busy weeknights
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ cup beef broth
- 8 ounces pasta, penne, spaghetti, or your choice
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream or milk, optional
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
- Red pepper flakes, for heat (optional)
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
I have made this pasta so many ways depending on what I have on hand, and it always turns out comforting and satisfying.
- Pasta: Short shapes like penne hold the sauce well, but spaghetti works beautifully too.
- Beef: Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be swapped in for a different flavor.
- Dairy-free: Use plant-based butter and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese.
- Extra creamy: Heavy cream gives the richest result, but milk still adds a nice softness.
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it up as it browns. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Stir and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, until fragrant and cozy-smelling.
- Pour in the beef broth and add the uncooked pasta. Stir to combine, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. If using, add the heavy cream or milk and stir until the sauce looks smooth and glossy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
- Stir occasionally so the pasta cooks evenly and does not stick.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest melt.
- If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk.
- Let the pasta rest for a minute before serving so the sauce settles.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
Make Ahead and Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers reheat well for quick lunches. I do not recommend freezing since the pasta can soften too much once thawed.
Tips and Variations
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra texture.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper flavor.
- Use sausage instead of beef for a bolder taste.
- Finish with lemon zest for a light, fresh contrast.
FAQs
Yes. The butter, broth, and Parmesan still create a rich sauce on their own.
Penne and other short pasta shapes hold the sauce well, but any pasta you love works here.
Very much so. Just skip the red pepper flakes for a mild version
📖 Recipe
Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: American, Italian
Description
This Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a creamy, flavorful one-pot meal that's ready in just 25 minutes! Made with savory ground beef, fragrant garlic, and Parmesan, it's a perfect quick and easy dinner for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ cup beef broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)
- ½ cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in beef broth and add uncooked pasta. Stir to combine, making sure pasta is submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 10-12 minutes or until pasta is tender.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese. If using, add heavy cream or milk for extra creaminess and stir until smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs.
Notes
Make it dairy-free with plant-based butter and cheese. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to boost nutrition. Keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Serving Suggestions
I love serving this beef and garlic butter pasta with a simple green salad or garlic bread to soak up the sauce. It is also perfect on its own when you want something comforting and filling.
Nutrition and Notes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 480 per serving
I have tested this recipe several times to get that balance of garlic, butter, and beef just right. It is one of those dinners that feels indulgent but still easy enough for a weeknight.
Reader Reviews
"This was so quick and flavorful. My family asked for seconds."
"Perfect comfort food after a long day. Adding this to our rotation."
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