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There’s nothing quite like a cozy bowl of creamy pasta after a long day. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just want a satisfying solo dinner, Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta with Garlic Butter is the kind of dish that checks all the boxes: fast, delicious, and no sink full of dishes.

This one-pot wonder is made with simple pantry ingredients, cooks in under 30 minutes, and delivers rich flavor with every bite. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable, so you can make it your own. Before we dive into the full recipe, let’s explore why this dish should become a regular on your dinner rotation.

Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta with Garlic Butter

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pasta

One-pot simplicity — fewer dishes, less cleanup
Bold garlic butter flavor mixed with savory ground beef
Velvety sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan
Great for weeknight meals or meal prepping
Easily adaptable with add-ins and swaps

If you’re trying to find meals that are nutritious and balanced, check out these nutritional balance tips to pair your pasta dish with lighter sides. It’s a great way to enjoy comfort food while staying on track.

Want even more ideas for easy, crowd-pleasing meals? Browse this list of quick dinner inspiration for time-saving favorites you can whip up anytime.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta:

8 oz penne or spaghetti

For the Garlic Butter Beef Sauce:

1 lb ground beef
2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, chopped
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ cup beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Garnish:

Fresh parsley
Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbled, about 5–7 minutes.
Break the beef into smaller bits for even texture.

2. Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft.
Stir in garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (don’t let it burn!).

3. Season the Beef

Mix in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Stir well to coat the beef and veggies with those aromatic flavors.

4. Add Liquids

Pour in beef broth and scrape any bits stuck to the pan — those bits = flavor bombs!
Stir in heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer.

5. Cook the Pasta

Add dry pasta directly into the pot.
Stir to ensure it’s submerged in the liquid.
Cover and simmer on low for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cook until pasta is al dente and the sauce thickens.

6. Stir in Parmesan

Remove lid and add grated Parmesan.
Stir until it melts into the sauce, creating a smooth, velvety finish.

7. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like heat.
Serve warm — maybe with garlic bread or a green salad on the side!

Easy Variations & Swaps

Meat alternatives: Swap ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles.
Add veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta like quinoa or rice-based options.
Dairy-free? Try coconut cream or almond milk and dairy-free cheese.
Spicy twist: Add hot sauce or extra chili flakes.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy pasta with:

Garlic bread – The buttery crunch is the perfect match.
Caesar salad – A crisp, tangy salad balances out the richness.
Roasted vegetables – Think asparagus, broccoli, or carrots for color and texture.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.
Meal prep: Great for batch cooking — store in portions and enjoy all week.

Recipe Tips for Success

Grate your own Parmesan for a smoother sauce.
Don’t overcook pasta — aim for al dente.
Simmer gently after adding cream — no rapid boiling!
Taste and adjust seasoning as you go.
Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup.

Estimated Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

Calories: ~550
Protein: 30g
Fat: 32g
Carbs: 40g
Sodium: 650mg

Make it lighter by using lean ground beef, low-fat cream, or smaller portions of cheese and butter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Spaghetti, fettuccine, macaroni, or even shells work great.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Swap the beef for plant-based crumbles or chopped mushrooms for a meat-free version.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare in advance and store for 3–4 days. Add broth or milk when reheating.

Can I freeze it?
Yes. Cool completely and freeze in airtight containers. Reheat gently with added liquid.

What should I serve with it?
It’s great solo, but even better with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted veggies.

How can I lighten this dish?
Use low-fat dairy, lean meat, or go light on cheese and butter. It’ll still taste amazing.

Can I use pre-cooked pasta?
Not ideal for this recipe. Dry pasta absorbs the flavors and helps thicken the sauce.

Is there a no-cream version?
Sure! Use milk and a little cream cheese for a lighter, yet still creamy, version.

Reader Twists & Creative Ideas

Add bacon bits or caramelized onions for extra depth
Mix in cream cheese for more tang and richness
Create themed versions like taco pasta or Italian sausage and kale

Final Thoughts

Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta with Garlic Butter is the definition of easy comfort food. With just one pot and pantry staples, you’ll have a delicious dinner that brings people to the table.

It’s versatile, forgiving, and best of all — it tastes like you spent hours cooking. Try it tonight and see how quickly it becomes a regular in your kitchen!