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One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

A rich and savory one-pot pasta dish featuring ground beef and a creamy garlic butter sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 4 servings
Calories 820 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Base

  • 8 ounces pasta Any short pasta works (penne, rigatoni, fusilli).

For the Beef & Sauce

  • 1 pound ground beef Use 90/10 for less fat or substitute with turkey/chicken.
  • 4 tablespoons garlic butter Or use regular butter plus 1–2 cloves minced garlic.
  • 1 cup heavy cream For a lighter texture, try half-and-half.
  • 1 cup beef broth Use low-sodium broth if necessary.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Adjust according to broth saltiness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

To Finish

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated melts best.
  • Fresh parsley for garnish Chop just before serving.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up until fully cooked with no pink remaining.
  • Drain excess fat if necessary.

Cooking

  • Add 4 tablespoons of garlic butter to the pot and let it melt, stirring to coat the beef.
  • Stir in the pasta, beef broth, and heavy cream, ensuring pasta is mostly covered. Bring to a low simmer.
  • Cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and sauce thickens, about 10 minutes.
  • Season with salt and pepper. Stir in grated Parmesan until melted and sauce is smooth.

Serving

  • Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
  • Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Notes

Leftovers reheat well; add a splash of broth to restore creaminess when reheating. For variations, consider adding vegetables or different protein options, and serve with a side salad or crusty bread.
Keyword Beef Pasta, Creamy Pasta, Easy Recipe, One-Pot Pasta, quick dinner